Proton-binding polymers for oral administration

ABSTRACT

Pharmaceutical compositions for and methods of treating an animal, including a human, and methods of preparing such compositions. The pharmaceutical compositions contain crosslinked amine polymers and may be used, for example, to treat diseases or other metabolic conditions in which removal of protons and/or chloride ions from the gastrointestinal tract would provide physiological benefits such as normalizing serum bicarbonate concentrations and the blood pH in an animal, including a human.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/533,705 filed on Jun. 7, 2017, which is a National StageApplication of PCT/US2015/065041 filed Dec. 10, 2015, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/090,287 filed on Dec.10, 2014, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporatedby reference herein in their entireties, as if recited in full herein.

The present invention generally relates to proton-binding polymers fororal administration that may be used in the treatment of metabolicacidosis.

Metabolic acidosis is the result of metabolic and dietary processes thatin various disease states create a condition in which non-volatile acidsaccumulate in the body, causing a net addition of protons (H+) or theloss of bicarbonate (HCO₃ ⁻). Metabolic acidosis occurs when the bodyaccumulates acid from metabolic and dietary processes and the excessacid is not completely removed from the body by the kidneys. Chronickidney disease is often accompanied by metabolic acidosis due to thereduced capacity of the kidney to excrete hydrogen ions secondary to aninability to reclaim filtered bicarbonate (HCO₃ ⁻), synthesize ammonia(ammoniagenesis), and excrete titratable acids. Clinical practiceguidelines recommend initiation of alkali therapy in patients withnon-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (CKD) when the serumbicarbonate level is <22 mEq/L to prevent or treat complications ofmetabolic acidosis. (Clinical practice guidelines for nutrition inchronic renal failure, K/DOQI, National Kidney Foundation, Am. J. KidneyDis. 2000; 35:S1-140; Raphael, K L, Zhang, Y, Wei, G, et al. 2013, Serumbicarbonate and mortality in adults in NHANES III, Nephrol. Dial.Transplant 28: 1207-1213). These complications include malnutrition andgrowth retardation in children, exacerbation of bone disease, increasedmuscle degradation, reduced albumin synthesis, and increasedinflammation. (Leman, J, Litzow, J R, Lennon, E J. 1966. The effects ofchronic acid loads in normal man: further evidence for the participationof bone mineral in the defense against chronic metabolic acidosis, J.Clin. Invest. 45: 1608-1614; Franch H A, Mitch W E, 1998, Catabolism inuremia: the impact of metabolic acidosis, J. Am. Soc. Nephrol. 9:S78-81; Ballmer, P E, McNurlan, M A, Hulter, H N, et al., 1995, Chronicmetabolic acidosis decreases albumin synthesis and induces negativenitrogen balance in humans, J. Clin. Invest. 95: 39-45; Farwell, W R,Taylor, E N, 2010, Serum anion gap, bicarbonate and biomarkers ofinflammation in healthy individuals in a national survey, CMAJ182:137-141). Overt metabolic acidosis is present in a large proportionof patients when the estimated glomerular filtration rate is below 30ml/min/1.73 m². (KDOQI bone guidelines: American Journal of KidneyDiseases (2003) 42:S1-S201. (suppl); Widmer B, Gerhardt R E, HarringtonJ T, Cohen J J, Serum electrolyte and acid base composition: Theinfluence of graded degrees of chronic renal failure, Arch Intern Med139:1099-1102, 1979; Dobre M, Yang, W, Chen J, et. al., Association ofserum bicarbonate with risk of renal and cardiovascular outcomes in CKD:a report from the chronic renal insufficiency cohort (CRIC) study. Am.J. Kidney Dis. 62: 670-678, 2013; Yaqoob, M M. Acidosis and progressionof chronic kidney disease. Curr. Opin. Nephrol. Hypertens. 19: 489-492,2010).

Metabolic acidosis, regardless of etiology, lowers extracellular fluidbicarbonate and, thus, decreases extracellular pH. The relationshipbetween serum pH and serum bicarbonate is described by theHenderson-Hasselbalch equationpH=pK′+log[HCO₃ ⁻]/[(0.03X PaCO₂)]where 0.03 is the physical solubility coefficient for CO₂, [HCO₃ ⁻] andPaCO₂ are the concentrations of bicarbonate and the partial pressure ofcarbon dioxide, respectively.

There are several laboratory tests that can be used to define metabolicacidosis. The tests fundamentally measure either bicarbonate (HCO₃ ⁻) orproton (H⁺) concentration in various biological samples, includingvenous or arterial blood.

The most useful measurements for the determination of acidosis rely on ameasurement of the venous plasma bicarbonate (or total carbon dioxide[tCO₂]), serum electrolytes Cl⁻, K⁺, and Na⁺, and a determination of theanion gap. In the clinical laboratory, measurement of venous plasma orserum electrolytes includes an estimation of the tCO2. This measurementreflects the sum of circulating CO₂ [i.e., the total CO₂ represented bybicarbonate (HCO₃ ⁻), carbonic acid, (H₂CO₃) and dissolved CO₂ (0.03 XPCO₂)]. tCO2 can also be related to HCO₃ ⁻ by using a simplified andstandardized form of the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation: tCO₂═HCO₃⁻+0.03 PCO₂, where PCO₂ is the measured partial pressure of CO₂. SinceHCO₃ ⁻ concentration is greater than 90% of the tCO₂, and there aresmall amounts of H₂CO₃, then venous tCO₂ is often used as a reasonableapproximation of the venous HCO₃ ⁻ concentration in the blood.Especially during chronic kidney disease, an abnormal plasma HCO₃ ⁻value <22 mEq/L generally indicates metabolic acidosis.

Changes in serum Cl⁻ concentration can provide additional insights intopossible acid-base disorders, particularly when they aredisproportionate to changes in serum Na⁺ concentration. When thisoccurs, the changes in serum Cl⁻ concentration are typically associatedwith reciprocal changes in serum bicarbonate. Thus, in metabolicacidosis with normal anion gap, serum Cl⁻ increases >105 mEq/L as serumbicarbonate decreases <22 mEq/L.

Calculation of the anion gap [defined as the serum Na⁺—(Cl⁻+HCO₃ ⁻)] isan important aspect of the diagnosis of metabolic acidosis. Metabolicacidosis may be present with a normal or an elevated anion gap. However,an elevated anion gap commonly signifies the presence of metabolicacidosis, regardless of the change in serum HCO₃ ⁻. An anion gap greaterthan 20 mEq/L (normal anion gap is 8 to 12 mEq/L) is a typical featureof metabolic acidosis.

Arterial blood gases are used to identify the type of an acid-basedisorder and to determine if there are mixed disturbances. In general,the result of arterial blood gas measures should be coordinated withhistory, physical exam and the routine laboratory data listed above. Anarterial blood gas measures the arterial carbon dioxide tension(P_(a)CO₂), acidity (pH), and the oxygen tension (P_(a)O₂). The HCO₃ ⁻concentration is calculated from the pH and the PaCO₂. Hallmarks ofmetabolic acidosis are a pH<7.35, P_(a)CO₂<35 mm Hg and HCO₃ ⁻<22 mEq/L.The value of P_(a)O₂ (normal 80-95 mmHg) is not used in making thediagnosis of metabolic acidosis but may be helpful in determining thecause. Acid-base disturbance are first classified as respiratory ormetabolic. Respiratory disturbances are those caused by abnormalpulmonary elimination of CO₂, producing an excess (acidosis) or deficit(alkalosis) of CO₂ (carbon dioxide) in the extracellular fluid. Inrespiratory acid-base disorders, changes in serum bicarbonate (HCO₃ ⁻)are initially a direct consequence of the change in Pco₂ with a greaterincrease in Pco₂ resulting in an increase in HCO₃ ⁻. (Adrogue H J,Madias N E, 2003, Respiratory acidosis, respiratory alkalosis, and mixeddisorders, in Johnson R J, Feehally J (eds): Comprehensive ClinicalNephrology. London, C V Mosby, pp. 167-182). Metabolic disturbances arethose caused by excessive intake of, or metabolic production or lossesof, nonvolatile acids or bases in the extracellular fluid. These changesare reflected by changes in the concentration of bicarbonate anion (HCO₃⁻) in the blood; adaptation in this case involves both buffering(immediate), respiratory (hours to days) and renal (days) mechanisms.(DuBose T D, MacDonald G A: renal tubular acidosis, 2002, in DuBose T D,Hamm L L (eds): Acid-base and electrolyte disorders: A companion toBrenners and Rector's the Kidney, Philadelphia, W B Saunders, pp.189-206).

The overall hydrogen ion concentration in the blood is defined by theratio of two quantities, the serum HCO₃ ⁻ content (regulated by thekidneys) and the PCO₂ content (regulated by the lungs) and is expressedas follows:[H⁺]∝(PCO₂/[HCO₃ ⁻])

The consequence of an increase in the overall hydrogen ion concentrationis a decline in the major extracellular buffer, bicarbonate. Normalblood pH is between 7.38 and 7.42, corresponding to a hydrogen ion (H⁺)concentration of 42 to 38 nmol/L (Goldberg M: Approach to Acid-BaseDisorders. 2005. In Greenberg A, Cheung A K (eds) Primer on KidneyDiseases, National Kidney Foundation, Philadelphia, Elsevier-Saunders,pp. 104-109). Bicarbonate (HCO₃ ⁻) is an anion that acts to bufferagainst pH disturbances in the body, and normal levels of plasmabicarbonate range from 22-26 mEq/L (Szerlip H M: Metabolic Acidosis,2005, in Greenberg A, Cheung A K (eds) Primer on Kidney Diseases,National Kidney Foundation, Philadelphia, Elsevier-Saunders, pp. 74-89).Acidosis is the process which causes a reduction in blood pH (acidemia)and reflects the accumulation of hydrogen ion (H+) and its consequentbuffering by bicarbonate ion (HCO₃ ⁻) resulting in a decrease in serumbicarbonate. Metabolic acidosis can be represented as follows:

(Clinical practice guidelines for nutrition in chronic renal failure.K/DOQI, National Kidney Foundation. Am. J. Kidney Dis. 2000; 35:S1-140).Using this balance equation, the loss of one HCO₃ ⁻ is equivalent to theaddition of one H⁺ and conversely, the gain of one HCO₃ ⁻ is equivalentto the loss of one H⁺. Thus, changes in blood pH, particularly increasesin H⁺ (lower pH, acidosis) can be corrected by increasing serum HCO₃ ⁻or, equivalently, by decreasing serum H+.

In order to maintain extracellular pH within the normal range, the dailyproduction of acid must be excreted from the body. Acid production inthe body results from the metabolism of dietary carbohydrates, fats andamino acids. Complete oxidation of these metabolic substrates produceswater and CO₂. The carbon dioxide generated by this oxidation (˜20,000mmol/day) is efficiently exhaled by the lungs, and represents thevolatile acid component of acid-base balance.

In contrast, nonvolatile acids (˜50-100 mEq/day) are produced by themetabolism of sulfate- and phosphate-containing amino acids and nucleicacids. Additional nonvolatile acids (lactic acid, butyric acid, aceticacid, other organic acids) arise from the incomplete oxidation of fatsand carbohydrates, and from carbohydrate metabolism in the colon, wherebacteria residing in the colon lumen convert the substrates into smallorganic acids that are then absorbed into the bloodstream. The impact ofshort chain fatty acids on acidosis is somewhat minimized by anabolism,for example into long-chain fatty acids, or catabolism to water and CO₂.

The kidneys maintain pH balance in the blood through two mechanisms:reclaiming filtered HCO₃ ⁻ to prevent overall bicarbonate depletion andthe elimination of nonvolatile acids in the urine. Both mechanisms arenecessary to prevent bicarbonate depletion and acidosis.

In the first mechanism, the kidneys reclaim HCO₃ ⁻ that is filtered bythe glomerulus. This reclamation occurs in the proximal tubule andaccounts for ˜4500 mEq/day of reclaimed HCO₃ ⁻. This mechanism preventsHCO₃ ⁻ from being lost in the urine, thus preventing metabolic acidosis.In the second mechanism, the kidneys eliminate enough H⁺ to equal thedaily nonvolatile acid production through metabolism and oxidation ofprotein, fats and carbohydrates. Elimination of this acid load isaccomplished by two distinct routes in the kidney, comprising activesecretion of H⁺ ion and ammoniagenesis. The net result of these twointerconnected processes is the elimination of the 50-100 mEq/day ofnonvolatile acid generated by normal metabolism.

Thus, normal renal function is needed to maintain acid-base balance.During chronic kidney disease, filtration and reclamation of HCO₃ ⁻ isimpaired as is generation and secretion of ammonia. These deficitsrapidly lead to chronic metabolic acidosis which is, itself, a potentantecedent to end-stage renal disease. With continued acid productionfrom metabolism, a reduction in acid elimination will disturb theH⁺/HCO₃ ⁻ balance such that blood pH falls below the normal value ofpH=7.38-7.42.

Treatment of metabolic acidosis by alkali therapy is usually indicatedto raise and maintain the plasma pH to greater than 7.20. Sodiumbicarbonate (NaHCO₃) is the agent most commonly used to correctmetabolic acidosis. NaHCO₃ can be administered intravenously to raisethe serum HCO₃ ⁻ level adequately to increase the pH to greater than7.20. Further correction depends on the individual situation and may notbe indicated if the underlying process is treatable or the patient isasymptomatic. This is especially true in certain forms of metabolicacidosis. For example, in high-anion gap (AG) acidosis secondary toaccumulation of organic acids, lactic acid, and ketones, the cognateanions are eventually metabolized to HCO₃ ⁻. When the underlyingdisorder is treated, the serum pH corrects; thus, caution should beexercised in these patients when providing alkali to raise the pH muchhigher than 7.20, to prevent an increase in bicarbonate above the normalrange (>26 mEq/L).

Citrate is an appropriate alkali therapy to be given orally or IV,either as the potassium or sodium salt, as it is metabolized by theliver and results in the formation of three moles of bicarbonate foreach mole of citrate. Potassium citrate administered IV should be usedcautiously in the presence of renal impairment and closely monitored toavoid hyperkalemia.

Intravenous sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) solution can be administered ifthe metabolic acidosis is severe or if correction is unlikely to occurwithout exogenous alkali administration. Oral alkali administration isthe preferred route of therapy in persons with chronic metabolicacidosis. The most common alkali forms for oral therapy include NaHCO₃tablets where 1 g of NaHCO₃ is equal to 11.9 mEq of HCO₃ ⁻. However, theoral form of NaHCO₃ is not approved for medical use and the packageinsert of the intravenous sodium bicarbonate solution includes thefollowing contraindications, warnings and precautions (Hospira label forNDC 0409-3486-16):

-   -   Contraindications: Sodium Bicarbonate Injection, USP is        contraindicated in patients who are losing chloride by vomiting        or from continuous gastrointestinal suction, and in patients        receiving diuretics known to produce a hypochloremic alkalosis.    -   Warnings: Solutions containing sodium ions should be used with        great care, if at all, in patients with congestive heart        failure, severe renal insufficiency and in clinical states in        which there exists edema with sodium retention. In patients with        diminished renal function, administration of solutions        containing sodium ions may result in sodium retention. The        intravenous administration of these solutions can cause fluid        and/or solute overloading resulting in dilution of serum        electrolyte concentrations, overhydration, congested states or        pulmonary edema.    -   Precautions: [ . . . ] The potentially large loads of sodium        given with bicarbonate require that caution be exercise in the        use of sodium bicarbonate in patients with congestive heart        failure or other edematous or sodium-retaining states, as well        as in patients with oliguria or anuria.

Acid-base disorders are common in chronic kidney disease and heartfailure patients. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) progressively impairsrenal excretion of the approximately 1 mmol/kg body weight of hydrogenions generated in healthy adults (Yaqoob, M M. 2010, Acidosis andprogression of chronic kidney disease, Curr. Opin. Nephrol. Hyperten.19:489-492). Metabolic acidosis, resulting from the accumulation of acid(H⁺) or depletion of base (HCO₃ ⁻) in the body, is a common complicationof patients with CKD, particularly when the glomerular filtration rate(GFR, a measure of renal function) falls below 30 ml/min/1.73 m².Metabolic acidosis has profound long term effects on protein and musclemetabolism, bone turnover and the development of renal osteodystrophy.In addition, metabolic acidosis influences a variety of paracrine andendocrine functions, again with long term consequences such as increasedinflammatory mediators, reduced leptin, insulin resistance, andincreased corticosteroid and parathyroid hormone production (Mitch W E,1997, Influence of metabolic acidosis on nutrition, Am. J. Kidney Dis.29:46-48). The net effect of sustained metabolic acidosis in the CKDpatient is loss of bone and muscle mass, a negative nitrogen balance,and the acceleration of chronic renal failure due to hormonal andcellular abnormalities (De Brito-Ashurst I, Varagunam M, Raftery M J, etal, 2009, Bicarbonate supplementation slows progression of CKD andimproves nutritional status, J. Am. Soc. Nephrol. 20: 2075-2084).Conversely, the potential concerns with alkali therapy in CKD patientsinclude expansion of extracellular fluid volume associated with sodiumingestion, resulting in the development or aggravation of hypertension,facilitation of vascular calcification, and the decompensation ofexisting heart failure. CKD patients of moderate degree (GFR at 20-25%of normal) first develop hyperchloremic acidosis with a normal anion gapdue to the inability to reclaim filtered bicarbonate and excrete protonand ammonium cations. As they progress toward the advanced stages of CKDthe anion gap increases, reflective of the continuing degradation of thekidney's ability to excrete the anions that were associated with theunexcreted protons. Serum bicarbonate in these patients rarely goesbelow 15 mmol/L with a maximum elevated anion gap of approximately 20mmol/L. The non-metabolizable anions that accumulate in CKD are bufferedby alkaline salts from bone (Lemann J Jr, Bushinsky D A, Hamm L L Bonebuffering of acid and base in humans. Am. J. Physiol Renal Physiol. 2003November, 285(5):F811-32).

The majority of patients with chronic kidney disease have underlyingdiabetes (diabetic nephropathy) and hypertension, leading todeterioration of renal function. In almost all patients withhypertension a high sodium intake will worsen the hypertension.Accordingly, kidney, heart failure, diabetes and hypertensive guidelinesstrictly limit sodium intake in these patients to less than 1.5 g or 65mEq per day (HFSA 2010 guidelines, Lindenfeld 2010, J Cardiac FailureV16 No 6 P475). Chronic anti-hypertensive therapies often induce sodiumexcretion (diuretics) or modify the kidney's ability to excrete sodiumand water (such as, for example, Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Systeminhibiting “RAASi” drugs). However, as kidney function deteriorates,diuretics become less effective due to an inability of the tubule torespond. The RAASi drugs induce life-threatening hyperkalemia as theyinhibit renal potassium excretion. Given the additional sodium load,chronically treating metabolic acidosis patients with amounts ofsodium-containing base that often exceed the total daily recommendedsodium intake is not a reasonable practice. As a consequence, oralsodium bicarbonate is not commonly prescribed chronically in thesediabetic nephropathy patients. Potassium bicarbonate is also notacceptable as patients with CKD are unable to readily excrete potassium,leading to severe hyperkalemia.

Despite these shortcomings, the role of oral sodium bicarbonate has beenstudied in the small subpopulation of non-hypertensive CKD patients. Aspart of the Kidney Research National Dialogue, alkali therapy wasidentified as having the potential to slow the progression of CKD, aswell as to correct metabolic acidosis. The annual age-related decline inglomerular filtration rate (GFR) after the age of 40 is 0.75-1.0ml/min/1.73 m² in normal individuals. In CKD patients with fastprogression, a steeper decline of >4 ml/min/1.73 m² annually can beseen.

In one outcome study, De Brito-Ashurst et al showed that bicarbonatesupplementation preserves renal function in CKD (De Brito-Ashurst I,Varagunam M, Raftery M J, et al, 2009, Bicarbonate supplementation slowsprogression of CKD and improves nutritional status, J. Am. Soc. Nephrol.20: 2075-2084). The study randomly assigned 134 adult patients with CKD(creatinine clearance [CrCl] 15 to 30 ml/min per 1.73 m²) and serumbicarbonate 16 to 20 mmol/L to either supplementation with oral sodiumbicarbonate or standard of care for 2 years. The average dose ofbicarbonate in this study was 1.82 g/day, which provides 22 mEq ofbicarbonate per day. The primary end points were rate of CrCl decline,the proportion of patients with rapid decline of CrCl (>3 ml/min per1.73 m²/yr), and end-stage renal disease (“ESRD”) (CrCl<10 ml/min).Compared with the control group, decline in CrCl was slower withbicarbonate supplementation (decrease of 1.88 ml/min per 1.73 m² forpatients receiving bicarbonate versus a decrease of 5.93 ml/min per 1.73m² for control group; P<0.0001). Patients supplemented with bicarbonatewere significantly less likely to experience rapid progression (9%versus 45%; relative risk 0.15; 95% confidence interval 0.06 to 0.40;P<0.0001). Similarly, fewer patients supplemented with bicarbonatedeveloped ESRD (6.5% versus 33%; relative risk 0.13; 95% confidenceinterval 0.04 to 0.40; P<0.001).

Hyperphosphatemia is a common co-morbidity in patients with CKD,particularly in those with advanced or end-stage renal disease.Sevelamer hydrochloride is a commonly used ion-exchange resin thatreduces serum phosphate concentration. However, reported drawbacks ofthis agent include metabolic acidosis apparently due to the netabsorption of HCl in the process of binding phosphate in the smallintestine. Several studies in patients with CKD and hyperphosphatemiawho received hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis found decreases inserum bicarbonate concentrations with the use of sevelamer hydrochloride(Brezina, 2004 Kidney Int. V66 S90 (2004) S39-S45; Fan, 2009 NephrolDial Transplant (2009) 24:3794).

Among the various aspects of the present invention, therefore, may benoted compositions for and methods of treating an animal, including ahuman, and methods of preparing such compositions. The compositionscomprise crosslinked amine polymers and may be used, for example, totreat diseases or other metabolic conditions in which removal of protonsand/or chloride ions from the gastrointestinal tract would providephysiological benefits. For example, the polymers described herein maybe used to regulate acid-base related diseases in an animal, including ahuman. In one such embodiment, the polymers described herein may be usedto normalize serum bicarbonate concentrations and the blood pH in ananimal, including a human. By way of further example, the polymersdescribed herein may be used in the treatment of acidosis. There areseveral distinct physiologic conditions that describe this imbalance,each of which can be treated by a polymer that binds and removes HCl.

Metabolic acidosis resulting from a net gain of acid includes processesthat increase endogenous hydrogen ion production, such as ketoacidosis,L-lactic acidosis, D-lactic acidosis and salicylate intoxication.Metabolism of ingested toxins such as methanol, ethylene glycol andparaldehyde can also increase hydrogen ion concentration. Decreasedrenal excretion of hydrogen ions as in uremic acidosis and distal (typeI) renal tubular acidosis is another cause of net gain of acid in thebody resulting in metabolic acidosis. Metabolic acidosis resulting froma loss of bicarbonate is a hallmark of proximal (type II) renal tubularacidosis. In addition, gastrointestinal loss of bicarbonate in acute orchronic diarrhea also results in metabolic acidosis. Primary orsecondary hypoaldosteronism are common disorders causing hyperkalemiaand metabolic acidosis and underlie the classification of type IV renaltubular acidosis. Hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism is the most frequentlyencountered variety of this disorder.

Another way of describing metabolic acidosis is in terms of the aniongap. Causes of high anion gap acidosis include diabetic ketoacidosis,L-lactic acidosis, D-lactic acidosis, alcoholic ketoacidosis, starvationketoacidosis, uremic acidosis associated with advanced renal failure(CKD Stages 4-5), salicylate intoxication, and selected toxin exposuredue to ingestion including methanol, ethylene, propylene glycol andparaldehyde. Causes of normal anion gap acidosis include early stagerenal failure (CKD Stages 1-3), gastrointestinal loss of bicarbonate dueto acute or chronic diarrhea, distal (type I) renal tubular acidosis,proximal (type II) renal tubular acidosis, type IV renal tubularacidosis, dilational acidosis associated with large volume intravenousfluid administration, and treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis resultingfrom ketones lost in the urine.

With regard to lactic acidosis, hypoxic lactic acidosis results from animbalance between oxygen balance and oxygen supply and is associatedwith tissue ischemia, seizure, extreme exercise, shock, cardiac arrest,low cardiac output and congestive heart failure, severe anemia, severehypoxemia and carbon monoxide poisoning, vitamin deficiency and sepsis.In other types of lactic acidosis, oxygen delivery is normal butoxidative phosphorylation is impaired, often the result of cellularmitochondrial defects. This is commonly seen in inborn errors ofmetabolism or from the ingestion of drugs or toxins. Alternate sugarsused for tube feedings or as irrigants during surgery (e.g., fructose,sorbitol) can also result in metabolism that triggers lactic acidosis.

There are three main classifications of renal tubular acidosis, eachwith distinctive etiologies with several sub-types. Distal (type I)renal tubular acidosis can be caused by hereditary and genomic changes,particularly mutation in the HCO₃ ⁻/Cl⁻ exchanger (AE1) or H⁺/ATPase.Examples of acquired distal (type I) renal tubular acidosis includehyperparathyroidism, Sjogren's syndrome, medullary sponge kidney,cryoglobulinemia, systemic lupus erythematosus, kidney transplantrejection, chronic tubulointerstitial disease and exposure to variousdrugs including amphotericin B, lithium, ifosfamide, foscarnet, tolueneand vanadium. A special classification of distal (type IV) renal tubularacidosis with hyperkalemia is found in lupus nephritis, obstructivenephropathy, sickle cell anemia, and voltage defects. Hereditaryexamples include pseudohypoaldosteronism type I andpseudohypoaldosteronism type II (Gordon's disease) and exposure tocertain drugs (amiloride, triamterene, trimethoprim, and pentamidine)can also result in distal (type IV) renal tubular acidosis withhyperkalemia. Proximal (type II) renal tubular acidosis can be caused byhereditary or acquired causes. Hereditary causes include Wilson'sdisease and Lowe's syndrome. Acquired causes include cystinosis,galactosemia, multiple myeloma, light chain disease, amyloidosis,vitamin D deficiency, lead and mercury ingestion, and exposure tocertain drugs including ifosfamide, cidofovir, aminoglycosides, andacetazolamide. Isolated defects in bicarbonate reabsorption can be acause of proximal (type II) renal tubular acidosis; example of suchdefects include exposure to carbonic anhydrase inhibitors,acetazolamide, topiramate, sulfamylon and carbonic anhydrase deficiency.Combined proximal and distal renal tubular acidosis (type III) isuncommon and results from defects in both proximal bicarbonatereabsorption and distal proton secretion. Mutations in the gene forcystolic carbonic anhydrase can cause the defect, as well as certaindrugs including ifosfamide. Type IV renal tubular acidosis withhyperkalemia is a cause of metabolic acidosis. The main etiology behindthis type of acidosis is aldosterone deficiency; hypoaldosteronismresults from primary adrenal failure, the syndrome of hyporeninemichypoaldosteronism (Type IV RTA) commonly seen in elderly individuals,Addison's disease, and pseudohypoaldosteronism type I due tomineralocorticoid resistance. Chronic interstitial nephritis due toanalgesic nephropathy, chronic pyelonephritis, obstructive nephropathyand sickle cell disease can also create an acidosis with hyperkalemia.Finally, drugs such as amiloride, spironolactone, triamterene,trimethoprim, heparin therapy, NSAIDs, angiotensin receptor blockers andangiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors can induce metabolic acidosisaccompanied by hyperkalemia.

All of the above causes and etiologies of metabolic acidosis aretreatable with a polymer designed to bind and remove HCl in thegastrointestinal tract.

The method of treatment generally involves administering atherapeutically effective amount of a crosslinked amine polymer havingthe capacity to remove protons and chloride ions from thegastrointestinal tract of an animal, such as a human. In general, suchcrosslinked amine polymers may have advantageous characteristics such asrelatively low swelling, relatively high proton and chloride ionbinding, and/or relatively low binding of interfering anions such asphosphate, bicarbonate, citrate, short chain fatty acids and bile acids.

In general, it is preferable for the polymers, once they becomeprotonated, to bind chloride as a counter ion rather than, for example,the other “interfering” anions listed above, because these interferinganions may be metabolically equivalent to bicarbonate in a patient inneed of treatment. Removal of chloride along with proton from the bodythrough being bound to an amine polymer of the present disclosure willhave an alkalinizing effect, while removal of an interfering anion mayhave less or even no alkalinizing effect.

In certain embodiments, the polymers preferably bind and maintain theirability to bind proton and anions at the physiological conditions foundalong the gastrointestinal (GI) lumen. These conditions can changeaccording to dietary intake (see, for example, Fordtran J, Locklear T.Ionic constituents and osmolality of gastric and small-intestinal fluidsafter eating. Digest Dis Sci. 1966; 11(7):503-21) and location along theGI tract (Binder, H et al. Chapters 41-45 in “Medical Physiology”, 2ndEdition, Elsevier [2011]. Boron and Boulpaep [Ed.]). Rapid binding ofproton and chloride in the stomach and small intestine is desirable.High binding levels and selectivity for chloride later in the GI tract(lower small intestine and large intestine) is also desirable. Ingeneral, the polymers also preferably have a pK_(a) such that themajority of amines are protonated under the various pH and electrolyteconditions encountered along the GI tract and are thereby capable ofremoving proton, along with an appropriate counter anion (preferablychloride), from the body into the feces.

Since the stomach is an abundant source of HCl, and the stomach is thefirst site of potential HCl binding (after the mouth), and sinceresidence time in the stomach is short (gastric residence half-life ofapproximately 90 minutes), compared to the rest of the GI tract (smallintestine transit time of approximately 4 hours; whole gut transit timeof 2-3 days; Read, N W et al. Gastroenterology [1980] 79:1276), it isdesirable for the polymer of the present disclosure to demonstrate rapidkinetics of proton and chloride binding in the lumen of this organ, aswell as in in vitro conditions designed to mimic the stomach lumen (e.g.SGF). Phosphate is a potential interfering anion for chloride binding inthe stomach and small intestine, where phosphate is mostly absorbed(Cross, H S et al Miner Electrolyte Metab [1990] 16:115-24). Thereforerapid and preferential binding of chloride over phosphate is desirablein the small intestine and in in vitro conditions designed to mimic thesmall intestine lumen (e.g. SIB). Since the transit time of the colon isslow (2-3 days) relative to the small intestine, and since conditions inthe colon will not be encountered by an orally administered polymeruntil after stomach and small intestine conditions have beenencountered, kinetics of chloride binding by a polymer of the presentdisclosure do not have to be as rapid in the colon or in in vitroconditions designed to mimic the late small intestine/colon (e.g. SOB).It is, however, important that chloride binding and selectivity overother interfering anions is high, for example, at 24 and/or 48 hours orlonger

In one embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer is administered as apharmaceutical composition comprising the crosslinked amine polymer and,optionally, a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, diluent or excipient,or combination thereof that do not significantly interfere with theproton and/or chloride binding characteristics of the crosslinked aminepolymer in vivo. Optionally, the pharmaceutical composition may alsocomprise an additional therapeutic agent.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a process for thepreparation of a crosslinked amine polymer that may be administered as apharmaceutical composition. The process comprises crosslinking apreformed amine polymer in a reaction mixture containing the preformedamine polymer, a solvent, a crosslinking agent, and a swelling agent forthe preformed amine polymer. The swelling agent is preferably immisciblewith the solvent, the preformed amine polymer has an absorption capacityfor the swelling agent, and the amount of swelling agent in the reactionmixture is less than the absorption capacity of the preformed aminepolymer for the swelling agent.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a process for thepreparation of a crosslinked amine polymer that may be administered as apharmaceutical composition. The process comprises crosslinking apreformed amine polymer in a reaction mixture containing the preformedamine polymer, a solvent, and a crosslinking agent to form a crosslinkedamine polymer. Prior to the crosslinking step, the preformed aminepolymer binds a first amount of chloride and competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) and after the crosslinking step,the crosslinked amine polymer binds a second (different) amount ofchloride and competing anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/ortaurocholate) in an appropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB). For example,in one such embodiment, the second amount of the competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) bound is relatively less thanthe first amount of the competing anions.

Amine monomers are typically polymerized in radical polymerizations viatheir protonated form because the free amine induces chain transferreactions and often limits the degree of polymerization to low molecularweights. In order to crosslink beyond the limit of electrostaticrepulsion and achieve a degree of crosslinking within a crosslinkedparticle, two discrete polymerization/crosslinking steps are performedin accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. In the firststep, a preformed amine polymer is prepared. The preformed amine polymeris deprotonated and further crosslinked in a secondpolymerization/crosslinking step to form a post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer. Advantageously, the primary crosslinking reactionis between carbon atoms (i.e., carbon-carbon crosslinking) in the firststep, whereas crosslinking is primarily between amine moieties comprisedby the preformed amine polymer in the second step.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a process for thepreparation of a crosslinked amine polymer comprising two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps. In the first step, a preformed aminepolymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g inSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2to 10 is formed. In the second step, the preformed amine polymer iscrosslinked with a crosslinker containing amine reactive moieties toform a post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. The resultingpost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer has a binding capacity forcompeting anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in anappropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB) that is less than the bindingcapacity of the preformed polymer for the competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in the same appropriate assay(e.g., SIB or SOB). In one embodiment the preformed amine polymer has aSwelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a process for thepreparation of a crosslinked amine polymer comprising two discretecrosslinking steps. In the first crosslinking step, a preformed aminepolymer is formed, the preformed amine polymer having a chloride bindingcapacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and aSwelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 and an average particle size ofat least 80 microns. The preformed amine polymer is (at least partially)deprotonated with a base and, in the second step, the deprotonatedpreformed amine polymer is crosslinked with a crosslinker containingamine reactive moieties to form a post-polymerization crosslinked aminepolymer. In one embodiment the preformed amine polymer has a SwellingRatio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, the preformedamine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a process for thepreparation of a crosslinked amine polymer comprising two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps. In the first step, a preformed aminepolymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g inSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2to 10 is formed. The preformed amine polymer is (at least partially)deprotonated with a base and contacted with a swelling agent to swellthe deprotonated preformed amine polymer. In the second step, theswollen, deprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with acrosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. Inone such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio inthe range of 4 to 6.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer and apharmaceutically acceptable excipient. The crosslinked amine polymer,for example, may be prepared as set forth in certain paragraphs above.The crosslinked amine polymer, for example, may be prepared bycrosslinking a preformed amine polymer in a reaction mixture containingthe preformed amine polymer, a solvent, a crosslinking agent, and aswelling agent for the preformed amine polymer. The swelling agent ispreferably immiscible with the solvent, the preformed amine polymer hasan absorption capacity for the swelling agent, and the amount ofswelling agent in the reaction mixture is less than the absorptioncapacity of the preformed amine polymer for the swelling agent. Thecrosslinked amine polymer, for example, may also be prepared bycrosslinking a preformed amine polymer in a reaction mixture containingthe preformed amine polymer, a solvent, and a crosslinking agent to forma crosslinked amine polymer. Prior to the crosslinking step, thepreformed amine polymer binds a first amount of chloride and competinganions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) and after thecrosslinking step, the crosslinked amine polymer binds a second(different) amount of chloride and competing anions (e.g., phosphate,citrate and/or taurocholate) in an appropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB).For example, in one such embodiment, the second amount of the competinganions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) bound isrelatively less than the first amount of the competing anions. Thecrosslinked amine polymer, for example, may also be prepared by twodiscrete polymerization/crosslinking steps performed in accordance withone aspect of the present disclosure. In the first step, a preformedamine polymer is prepared. The preformed amine polymer is deprotonatedand further crosslinked in a second polymerization/crosslinking step toform a post-polymerization crosslinked polymer. Advantageously, theprimary crosslinking reaction is between carbon atoms (i.e.,carbon-carbon crosslinking) in the first step, whereas crosslinking isprimarily between amine moieties comprised by the preformed aminepolymer in the second step. The crosslinked amine polymer, for example,may also be prepared by two discrete polymerization/crosslinking steps,where in the first step, a preformed amine polymer having a chloridebinding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 is formed. In thesecond step, the preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with acrosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. The resultingpost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer has a binding capacity forcompeting anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in anappropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB) that is less than the bindingcapacity of the preformed polymer for the competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in the same appropriate assay(e.g., SIB or SOB). In one embodiment the preformed amine polymer has aSwelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6. Thecrosslinked amine polymer, for example, may also be prepared by twodiscrete crosslinking steps, where in the first crosslinking step, apreformed amine polymer is formed, the preformed amine polymer having achloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 and anaverage particle size of at least 80 microns. The preformed aminepolymer is (at least partially) deprotonated with a base and, in thesecond step, the deprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinkedwith a crosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. Inone such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio inthe range of 4 to 6. The crosslinked amine polymer, for example, mayalso be prepared by two discrete polymerization/crosslinking steps,where in the first step, a preformed amine polymer having a chloridebinding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 is formed. Thepreformed amine polymer is (at least partially) deprotonated with a baseand contacted with a swelling agent to swell the deprotonated preformedamine polymer. In the second step, the swollen, deprotonated preformedamine polymer is crosslinked with a crosslinker containing aminereactive moieties to form a post-polymerization crosslinked aminepolymer. In one embodiment the preformed amine polymer has a SwellingRatio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, the preformedamine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4.5, 5, 5.5, oreven at least 6 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer(“SIB”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a ratio ofchloride ion binding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacity inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has aratio of chloride ion binding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacityin Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.5:1,3:1, 3.5:1, or even 4:1, respectively.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 1 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than0.4 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 1.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 0.6 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In another such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymerhas a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2.0 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 0.8 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 2.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.0 mmol/gin SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of atleast 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 3.0 mmol/g inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ionbinding capacity of less than 1.3 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion tophosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 3.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than1.5 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 4.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.7 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4.5 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 1.9 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 2.1 mmol/gin SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of atleast 2.3:1, respectively. In each of the foregoing embodiments, thecrosslinked amine polymer may have a chloride ion to phosphate ionbinding ratio in SIB of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5 or evenat least 4, respectively.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a ratio ofchloride ion binding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacity inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1,respectively, and a Swelling Ratio of less than 5. For example, in onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer may have a chloride ionto phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, at least 2.5,at least 3, at least 3.5 or even at least 4, respectively, and aSwelling Ratio of less than 5, less than 4, less than 3, less than 2,less than 1.5 or even less than 1.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer has a retainedchloride content of at least 30% of the chloride that was initiallybound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”) (i.e., bound duringthe SGF binding step). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a retained chloride content of at least 30%, at least 40%,at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% or even at least90% of the chloride that was initially bound in a GI Compartment TransitAssay.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer has a retainedchloride content of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GICompartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”). In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloride content of at least0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, atleast 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/gof polymer in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer has a retainedchloride content of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GICompartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”) and a chloride retention at the endof the GICTA of at least 30% of the chloride that was initially bound inthe GICTA (i.e., bound during the SGF binding step). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloridecontent of at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, atleast 70%, at least 80% or even at least 90% of the chloride that wasinitially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay and a retainedchloride content of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2,at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, oreven at least 5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment TransitAssay (“GICTA”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8, atleast 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, or even atleast 14 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay thatis at least 50% of its chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, atleast 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of itschloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) Assay, a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay, and achloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50% of its chloride ion binding capacityin a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8, atleast 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, or even atleast 14 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay andthe crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, atleast 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of itschloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer.In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/gpolymer.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 2-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g polymerand a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer(“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 2-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least2, at least 2.5, or even at least 3 mmol chloride/g polymer and a24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”)assay of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/g polymer.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4 hours inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, or evenat least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4 hours inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) and a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmolchloride/g polymer at 24 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymerhas a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, atleast 3, at least 3.5, or even at least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) and acrosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, or even at least 4 mmolchloride/g polymer at 24 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 5.5 mmol chloride/g polymer.In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 6 mmol chloride/g polymer.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer as described incertain paragraphs above wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKaof at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, atleast 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl).A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer, wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl), prepared by a process comprising two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps, where in the first step, a preformedamine polymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/gin Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of2 to 10 is formed. In the second step, the preformed amine polymer iscrosslinked with a crosslinker containing amine reactive moieties toform a post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. The resultingpost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer has a binding capacity forcompeting anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in anappropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB) that is less than the bindingcapacity of the preformed polymer for the competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in the same appropriate assay(e.g., SIB or SOB). In one embodiment the preformed amine polymer has aSwelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100mM NaCl). A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer, wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl), prepared by a process comprising two discretecrosslinking steps, where in the first crosslinking step, a preformedamine polymer is formed, the preformed amine polymer having a chloridebinding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 and an averageparticle size of at least 80 microns. The preformed amine polymer is (atleast partially) deprotonated with a base and, in the second step, thedeprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with a crosslinkercontaining amine reactive moieties to form a post-polymerizationcrosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment the preformed amine polymerhas a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100mM NaCl). A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer, wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl), prepared by a process comprising two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps, where in the first step, a preformedamine polymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/gin Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of2 to 10 is formed. The preformed amine polymer is (at least partially)deprotonated with a base and contacted with a swelling agent to swellthe deprotonated preformed amine polymer. In the second step, theswollen, deprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with acrosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. Inone such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio inthe range of 4 to 6. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of the presentdisclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), and apharmaceutically acceptable excipient. The crosslinked amine polymer,for example, may be prepared by crosslinking a preformed amine polymerin a reaction mixture containing the preformed amine polymer, a solvent,a crosslinking agent, and a swelling agent for the preformed aminepolymer. The swelling agent is preferably immiscible with the solvent,the preformed amine polymer has an absorption capacity for the swellingagent, and the amount of swelling agent in the reaction mixture is lessthan the absorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer for theswelling agent. The crosslinked amine polymer, for example, may beprepared by crosslinking a preformed amine polymer in a reaction mixturecontaining the preformed amine polymer, a solvent, and a crosslinkingagent to form a crosslinked amine polymer. Prior to the crosslinkingstep, the preformed amine polymer binds a first amount of chloride andcompeting anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) andafter the crosslinking step, the crosslinked amine polymer binds asecond (different) amount of chloride and competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in an appropriate assay (e.g.,SIB or SOB). For example, in one such embodiment, the second amount ofthe competing anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate)bound is relatively less than the first amount of the competing anions.The crosslinked amine polymer, for example, may be prepared by twodiscrete polymerization/crosslinking steps are performed in accordancewith one aspect of the present disclosure, where in the first step, apreformed amine polymer is prepared. The preformed amine polymer isdeprotonated and further crosslinked in a secondpolymerization/crosslinking step to form a post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer. Advantageously, the primary crosslinking reactionis between carbon atoms (i.e., carbon-carbon crosslinking) in the firststep, whereas crosslinking is primarily between amine moieties comprisedby the preformed amine polymer in the second step. The crosslinked aminepolymer, for example, may be prepared by discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps, where in the first step, a preformedamine polymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/gin Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of2 to 10 is formed. In the second step, the preformed amine polymer iscrosslinked with a crosslinker containing amine reactive moieties toform a post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. The resultingpost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer has a binding capacity forcompeting anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in anappropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB) that is less than the bindingcapacity of the preformed polymer for the competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in the same appropriate assay(e.g., SIB or SOB). In one embodiment the preformed amine polymer has aSwelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6. Thecrosslinked amine polymer, for example, may be prepared by two discretecrosslinking steps, where in the first crosslinking step, a preformedamine polymer is formed, the preformed amine polymer having a chloridebinding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 and an averageparticle size of at least 80 microns. The preformed amine polymer is (atleast partially) deprotonated with a base and, in the second step, thedeprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with a crosslinkercontaining amine reactive moieties to form a post-polymerizationcrosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment the preformed amine polymerhas a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one such embodiment, thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6. Thecrosslinked amine polymer, for example, may be prepared by two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps, where in the first step, a preformedamine polymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/gin Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of2 to 10 is formed. The preformed amine polymer is (at least partially)deprotonated with a base and contacted with a swelling agent to swellthe deprotonated preformed amine polymer. In the second step, theswollen, deprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with acrosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. Inone such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio inthe range of 4 to 6. A further aspect of the present disclosure is apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer,wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”). In one embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has achloride ion binding capacity of at least 4.5, 5, 5.5, or even at least6 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100mM NaCl). A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer, wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a ratio of chloride ion bindingcapacity to phosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In oneembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a ratio of chloride ionbinding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.5:1, 3:1, 3.5:1, oreven 4:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of the presentdisclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 1 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than0.4 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 1.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 0.6 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In another such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymerhas a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2.0 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 0.8 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 2.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.0 mmol/gin SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of atleast 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 3.0 mmol/g inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ionbinding capacity of less than 1.3 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion tophosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 3.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than1.5 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 4.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.7 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4.5 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 1.9 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 2.1 mmol/gin SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of atleast 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). In each of the foregoingembodiments, the crosslinked amine polymer may have a chloride ion tophosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least3.5 or even at least 4, respectively. A further aspect of the presentdisclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a ratio ofchloride ion binding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacity inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1,respectively, and a Swelling Ratio of less than 5. For example, in onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer may have a chloride ionto phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, at least 2.5,at least 3, at least 3.5 or even at least 4, respectively, and aSwelling Ratio of less than 5, less than 4, less than 3, less than 2,less than 1.5 or even less than 1. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or evenat least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspectof the present disclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having aretained chloride content of at least 30% of the chloride that wasinitially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”) (i.e., boundduring the SGF binding step). In one such embodiment, the crosslinkedamine polymer has a retained chloride content of at least 30%, at least40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% or even atleast 90% of the chloride that was initially bound in a GI CompartmentTransit Assay. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of the present disclosure isa pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer,wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a retained chloridecontent of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI CompartmentTransit Assay (“GICTA”). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a retained chloride content of at least 0.5, at least 1, atleast 1.5, at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GICompartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”). In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or evenat least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspectof the present disclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having aretained chloride content of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g of polymer ina GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”) and a chloride retention at theend of the GICTA of at least 30% of the chloride that was initiallybound in the GICTA (i.e., bound during the SGF binding step). In onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloridecontent of at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, atleast 70%, at least 80% or even at least 90% of the chloride that wasinitially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay and a retainedchloride content of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2,at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, oreven at least 5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment TransitAssay (“GICTA”). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymerhas a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of the presentdisclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8, atleast 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, or even atleast 14 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100mM NaCl). A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer, wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a chloride ion binding capacity in a1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50% of itschloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least80%, or even at least 90% of its chloride ion binding capacity in a24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment,the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, oreven at least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A furtheraspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceutical compositioncomprising a crosslinked amine polymer, wherein the crosslinked aminepolymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mMNaCl), having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay, a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 8 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay, and a chloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hour SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50% of its chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8,at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, or evenat least 14 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assayand the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity ina 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, atleast 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of itschloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of the present disclosure isa pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer,wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/gpolymer. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKaof at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of the present disclosure isa pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer,wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 2-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g polymer and a24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”)assay of at least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In one such embodiment,the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a2-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”)assay of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2, at least2.5, or even at least 3 mmol chloride/g polymer and a 24-hour SimulatedSmall Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even atleast 5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In one such embodiment, the crosslinkedamine polymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of thepresent disclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having achloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, or evenat least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or evenat least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspectof the present disclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having achloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) and acrosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 24 hours in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2, at least 2.5,at least 3, at least 3.5, or even at least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at4 hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) and acrosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, or even at least 4 mmolchloride/g polymer at 24 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymerhas a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A further aspect of the presentdisclosure is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer, wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl), having a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 5.5 mmol chloride/g polymer.In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 6 mmol chloride/g polymer. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (at equilibrium, measured in 100mM NaCl).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having (i) aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g at 1 hour in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having (i) aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ion binding capacity ofless than 2 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer(“SIB”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having (i) aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride ion bindingcapacity at 1 hour in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”)of at least (i) 2 mmol/g, (ii) 2.5 mmol/g, or (iii) 3 mmol/g.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having (i) aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride to phosphate ionbinding ratio of at least 2.3:1, respectively, in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having (i) aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g at one hour in Simulated Gastric Fluid and (ii) a proton-bindingcapacity and a chloride binding capacity in Simulated Gastric Fluid ofat least (a) 8 mmol/g, (b) 10 mmol/g, (c) 12 mmol/g, or (d) 14 mmol/g.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity at one hour inSimulated Gastric Fluid that is at least X % of the proton-bindingcapacity and the chloride binding capacity, respectively, of thecrosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in Simulated Gastric Fluid whereinX % is at least (i) 50%, (ii) 60%, (iii) 70%, (iv) 80%, or even (v) 90%.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having (i) aselectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate and taurocholate inSimulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”), and (ii)a chloride binding capacity at 24 hours in SOB of at least 4 mmol/g.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a selectivityfor chloride over citrate, phosphate and taurocholate in Simulated SmallIntestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”), at (i) 1 hour, (ii) 4hours, (iii) 12 hours, (iv) 18 hours, (v) 24 hours, (vi) 30 hours, (vii)36 hours, or even (viii) 48 hours.

A further aspect of the present disclosure is a pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 2 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) at (i) 1 hour, (ii) 2 hours, (iii) 3 hours, (iv) 4 hours,and/or (v) greater than 4 hours.

Other aspects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointedout hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A-1C is a flow chart schematically depicting the mechanism ofaction of the polymer when passing through the gastrointestinal tract ofan individual from oral ingestion/stomach (FIG. 1A), to the upper GItract (FIG. 1B) to the lower GI tract/colon (FIG. 1C).

FIG. 2 is a plot of equilibrium chloride binding by (example 019067-A2)at different pH levels as described more fully in the Examples.

FIG. 3 is a series of photographs of particulate amine polymersdemonstrating a lack of aggregation in solvent-dispersed Step 2reactions compared to aggregation in a non-dispersed Step 2 reaction asdescribed more fully in the Examples.

FIG. 4 is a plot of swelling of preformed amine polymer against amountof crosslinker used in the first polymerization/crosslinking step inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure.

ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS

The following definitions and methods are provided to better define thepresent invention and to guide those of ordinary skill in the art in thepractice of the present invention. Unless otherwise noted, terms are tobe understood according to conventional usage by those of ordinary skillin the relevant art.

The term “absorption capacity” as used herein in connection with apolymer and a swelling agent (or in the case of a mixture of swellingagents, the mixture of swelling agents) is the amount of the swellingagent (or such mixture) absorbed during a period of at least 16 hours atroom temperature by a given amount of a dry polymer (e.g., in the formof a dry bead) immersed in an excess amount of the swelling agent (orsuch mixture).

The term “acrylamide” denotes a moiety having the structural formulaH₂C═CH—C(O)NR—*, where * denotes the point of attachment of the moietyto the remainder of the molecule and R is hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, orsubstituted hydrocarbyl.

The term “acrylic” denotes a moiety having the structural formulaH₂C═CH—C(O)O—*, where * denotes the point of attachment of the moiety tothe remainder of the molecule.

The term “alicyclic”, “alicyclic” or “alicyclyl” means a saturatedmonocyclic group of 3 to 8 carbon atoms and includes cyclopentyl,cyclohexyl, cycloheptyl, and the like.

The term “aliphatic” denotes saturated and non-aromatic unsaturatedhydrocarbyl moieties having, for example, one to about twenty carbonatoms or, in specific embodiments, one to about twelve carbon atoms, oneto about ten carbon atoms, one to about eight carbon atoms, or even oneto about four carbon atoms. The aliphatic groups include, for example,alkyl moieties such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl,isobutyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, pentyl, iso-amyl, hexyl and the like,and alkenyl moieties of comparable chain length.

The term “alkanol” denotes an alkyl moiety that has been substitutedwith at least one hydroxyl group. In some embodiments, alkanol groupsare “lower alkanol” groups comprising one to six carbon atoms, one ofwhich is attached to an oxygen atom. In other embodiments, lower alkanolgroups comprise one to three carbon atoms.

The term “alkenyl group” encompasses linear or branched carbon radicalshaving at least one carbon-carbon double bond. The term “alkenyl group”can encompass conjugated and non-conjugated carbon-carbon double bondsor combinations thereof. An alkenyl group, for example and without beinglimited thereto, can encompass two to about twenty carbon atoms or, in aparticular embodiment, two to about twelve carbon atoms. In certainembodiments, alkenyl groups are “lower alkenyl” groups having two toabout four carbon atoms. Examples of alkenyl groups include, but are notlimited thereto, ethenyl, propenyl, allyl, vinyl, butenyl and4-methylbutenyl. The terms “alkenyl group” and “lower alkenyl group”,encompass groups having “cis” or “trans” orientations, or alternatively,“E” or “Z” orientations.

The term “alkyl group” as used, either alone or within other terms suchas “haloalkyl group,” “aminoalkyl group” and “alkylamino group”,encompasses saturated linear or branched carbon radicals having, forexample, one to about twenty carbon atoms or, in specific embodiments,one to about twelve carbon atoms. In other embodiments, alkyl groups are“lower alkyl” groups having one to about six carbon atoms. Examples ofsuch groups include, but are not limited thereto, methyl, ethyl,n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, pentyl,iso-amyl, hexyl and the like. In more specific embodiments, lower alkylgroups have one to four carbon atoms.

The term “alkylamino group” refers to amino groups directly attached tothe remainder of the molecule via the nitrogen atom of the amino groupand wherein the nitrogen atom of the alkylamino group is substituted byone or two alkyl groups. In some embodiments, alkylamino groups are“lower alkylamino” groups having one or two alkyl groups of one to sixcarbon atoms, attached to a nitrogen atom. In other embodiments, loweralkylamino groups have one to three carbon atoms. Suitable “alkylamino”groups may be mono or dialkylamino such as N-methylamino, N-ethylamino,N,N-dimethylamino, N,N-diethylamino, pentamethyleneimine and the like.

The term “allyl” denotes a moiety having the structural formulaH₂C═CH—CH₂—*, where * denotes the point of attachment of the moiety tothe remainder of the molecule and the point of attachment is to aheteroatom or an aromatic moiety.

The term “allylamine” denotes a moiety having the structural formulaH₂C═CH—CH₂N(X₈)(X₉), wherein X₈ and X₉ are independently hydrogen,hydrocarbyl, or substituted hydrocarbyl, or X₈ and X₉ taken togetherform a substituted or unsubstituted alicyclic, aryl, or heterocyclicmoiety, each as defined in connection with such term, typically havingfrom 3 to 8 atoms in the ring.

The term “amine” or “amino” as used alone or as part of another group,represents a group of formula —N(X₈)(X₉), wherein X₈ and X₉ areindependently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, or substituted hydrocarbyl,heteroaryl, or heterocyclo, or X₈ and X₉ taken together form asubstituted or unsubstituted alicyclic, aryl, or heterocyclic moiety,each as defined in connection with such term, typically having from 3 to8 atoms in the ring.

The term “aminoalkyl group” encompasses linear or branched alkyl groupshaving one to about ten carbon atoms, any one of which may besubstituted with one or more amino groups, directly attached to theremainder of the molecule via an atom other than a nitrogen atom of theamine group(s). In some embodiments, the aminoalkyl groups are “loweraminoalkyl” groups having one to six carbon atoms and one or more aminogroups. Examples of such groups include aminomethyl, aminoethyl,aminopropyl, aminobutyl and aminohexyl.

The term “aromatic group” or “aryl group” means an aromatic group havingone or more rings wherein such rings may be attached together in apendent manner or may be fused. In particular embodiments, an aromaticgroup is one, two or three rings. Monocyclic aromatic groups may contain5 to 10 carbon atoms, typically 5 to 7 carbon atoms, and more typically5 to 6 carbon atoms in the ring. Typical polycyclic aromatic groups havetwo or three rings. Polycyclic aromatic groups having two ringstypically have 8 to 12 carbon atoms, preferably 8 to 10 carbon atoms inthe rings. Examples of aromatic groups include, but are not limited to,phenyl, naphthyl, tetrahydronaphthyl, indanyl, biphenyl, phenanthryl,anthryl or acenaphthyl.

The term “bead” is used to describe a crosslinked polymer that issubstantially spherical in shape.

The term “binds” as used herein in connection with a polymer and one ormore ions, that is, a cation (e.g. “proton-binding” polymer) and ananion, is an “ion-binding” polymer and/or when it associates with theion, generally though not necessarily in a non-covalent manner, withsufficient association strength that at least a portion of the ionremains bound under the in vitro or in vivo conditions in which thepolymer is used for sufficient time to effect a removal of the ion fromsolution or from the body.

The term “crosslinker” as used, either alone or within other terms,encompasses hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl, linear or branchedmolecules capable of reacting with any of the described monomers, or theinfinite polymer network, as described in Formula 1, more than one time.The reactive group in the crosslinker can include, but is not limited toalkyl halide, epoxide, phosgene, anhydride, carbamate, carbonate,isocyanate, thioisocyanate, esters, activated esters, carboxylic acidsand derivatives, sulfonates and derivatives, acyl halides, aziridines,alpha,beta-unsaturated carbonyls, ketones, aldehydes, pentafluoroarylgroups, vinyl, allyl, acrylate, methacrylate, acrylamide,methacrylamide, styrenic, acrylonitriles and combinations thereof. Inone exemplary embodiment, the crosslinker's reactive group will includealkyl halide, epoxide, anhydrides, isocyanates, allyl, vinyl,acrylamide, and combinations thereof. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinker's reactive group will be alkyl halide, epoxide, or allyl.

The term “diallylamine” denotes an amino moiety having two allyl groups.

The terms “dry bead” and “dry polymer” refer to beads or polymers thatcontain no more than 5% by weight of a non-polymer swelling agent orsolvent. Often the swelling agent/solvent is water remaining at the endof a purification. This is generally removed by lyophilization or ovendrying before storage or further crosslinking of a preformed aminepolymer. The amount of swelling agent/solvent can be measured by heating(e.g., heating to 100-200° C.) and measuring the resulting change inweight. This is referred to a “loss on drying” or “LOD.”

The term “ethereal” denotes a moiety having an oxygen bound to twoseparate carbon atoms as depicted the structural formula*—H_(x)C—O—CH_(x)—*, where * denotes the point of attachment to theremainder of the moiety and x independently equals 0, 1, 2, or 3.

The term “gel” is used to describe a crosslinked polymer that has anirregular shape.

The term “GI Compartment Transit Assay” or “GICTA” denotes an assaywhere the free amine test polymers, including free amine sevelamer andbixalomer controls, are sequentially exposed to different buffers thatsimulate different conditions to which a polymer will be exposed whilepassing through human GI tract. Incubation times in these differentconditions are selected to represent the approximate transit time ofpolymers through a particular section of GI tract. The first step in the“GICTA” is to perform a “simulated gastric fluid (SGF)” assay, in which,polymers are incubated in SGF buffer at a polymer concentration of 2.5mg/ml. SGF composition reflects typical ionic concentration in a fastingstomach (and are described elsewhere). The polymers are incubated for 1hour at 37° C., in solid phase extraction (SPE) tubes fitted with 20micrometer pore-size frits. Blank SPE tubes that contain SGF bufferwithout polymer are included and processed in an identical mannerthroughout the “GICTA” screen. A 400 microliter sample is removed,filtered, diluted if necessary, and assayed for chloride content usingion chromatography. For each tested polymer, chloride binding iscalculated using the following equation

$\frac{\left( {{{Cl}{start}} - {{Cl}{eq}}} \right) \times 4}{2.5}$Binding capacity expressed as mmol chloride/g polymer: where Cl startcorresponds to the starting concentration of chloride in the SGF buffer(mM), Cl eq corresponds to the equilibrium value of chloride in thediluted measured filtrates after exposure to the test polymer for 1 hour(mM), 4 is the dilution factor and 2.5 is the polymer concentration inmg/ml. The SPE tubes are further rinsed with DI water twice and excessliquid is removed by applying negative pressure at the bottom. SimulatedSmall Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (SOB) buffer is then addedto the tubes to achieve polymer concentration of 2.5 mg/ml (assuming noloss of polymer while sampling supernatant for ion chromatographyanalysis in SGF binding step). The concentrations of potential competinganions in SOB buffer reflect typical composition of fluid present insmall intestine (and are described elsewhere). The polymers areincubated in this buffer for 2 hours at 37° C. A 400 microliter sampleis removed, filtered, diluted if necessary, and assayed for ions boundor released in this buffer using ion chromatography. For each testedpolymer, and for each anion present in the SOB buffer binding iscalculated as mmol of anion bound per gram of polymer.

${{Ions}{bound}/{released}\left( {{mmol}/g} \right)} = \frac{\left( {\lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{start} - \lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{final}} \right) \times \left\lbrack {{dilution}{factor}} \right\rbrack}{2.5}$where [Ion]_(start) corresponds to the starting concentration of an ionin the SOB buffer (mM), [Ion]_(final) corresponds to the final value ofthat particular ion in the measured filtrates after exposure to the testpolymer (mM), and 2.5 is the polymer concentration in mg/ml. Excess SOBbuffer is then removed by applying negative pressure at the bottom ofthe tube and tubes are further rinsed with DI water twice and excessliquid is removed by applying negative pressure at the bottom.“Retention Buffer” is then added to the tubes to achieve polymerconcentration of 2.5 mg/ml (assuming no loss of polymer while samplingsupernatant for ion chromatography analysis in SGF and SOB bindingsteps). Retention Buffer comprises 50 mMN,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-aminoethanesulfonic acid (BES), 100 mM sodiumacetate, 2 mM sodium phosphate, 3 mM sodium sulphate, 17 mM sodiumchloride and 30 mM sodium bicarbonate adjusted to pH 7. The anioncomposition in Retention Buffer represent typical late-colon lumenconcentrations (Wrong, O et al. [1965] Clinical Science 28, 357-375).The SPE tubes are capped and sealed and incubated at 37° C. forapproximately 40 hours, which is a typical transit time for the humanlarge intestine (Metcalf, A M et al. Gastroenterology [1987] 92: 40-47).A 400 microliter sample is removed, filtered, diluted if necessary, andassayed for anion content as described above for SOB. For each testedpolymer, ions bound or released from the polymer in retention matrix arecalculated using the following calculation

${{Ions}{bound}/{released}\left( {{mmol}/g} \right)} = \frac{\left( {\lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{start} - \lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{final}} \right) \times \left\lbrack {{dilution}{factor}} \right\rbrack}{2.5}$where [Ion]_(start) corresponds to the starting concentration of an ionin Retention Buffer (mM), [Ion]_(final) corresponds to the final valueof that particular ion in the measured filtrates after exposure to thetest polymer for 40 hours (mM), and 2.5 is the polymer concentration inmg/ml. The excess retention matrix is removed by applying negativepressure to the bottom of the SPE tubes. The tubes are further rinsedwith DI water twice and excess liquid is removed by applying negativepressure at the bottom. Ions that remain bound to the polymers areeluted by adding 0.2M NaOH to the SPE tubes to achieve a final polymerconcentration of 2.5 mg/ml (assuming no loss of polymer in prior threebinding steps) and incubating for 16-20 hours at 37° C. A 600 microlitersample is removed, filtered, diluted if necessary, and assayed for anioncontent as described above for SOB. For each tested polymer, ionsreleased from the polymer in retention matrix is calculated using thefollowing calculation

${{Ions}{{released}{}\left( {{mmol}/g} \right)}} = \frac{\left( {\lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{start} - \lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{final}} \right) \times \left\lbrack {{dilution}{factor}} \right\rbrack}{2.5}$where [Ion]_(start) corresponds to the starting concentration of an ionin the elution solution (0.2 M NaOH) in mM, [Ion]_(final) corresponds tothe final value of that particular ion in the measured filtrates afterexposure to the test polymer for 16-20 hours in 0.2 M NaOH (mM), and 2.5is the polymer concentration in mg/ml.

The term “halo” means halogens such as fluorine, chlorine, bromine oriodine atoms.

The term “haloalkyl group” encompasses groups wherein any one or more ofthe alkyl carbon atoms is substituted with halo as defined above.Specifically encompassed are monohaloalkyl, dihaloalkyl andpolyhaloalkyl groups including perhaloalkyl. A monohaloalkyl group, forexample, may have either an iodo, bromo, chloro or fluoro atom withinthe group. Dihalo and polyhaloalkyl groups may have two or more of thesame halo atoms or a combination of different halo groups. “Lowerhaloalkyl group” encompasses groups having 1-6 carbon atoms. In someembodiments, lower haloalkyl groups have one to three carbon atoms.Examples of haloalkyl groups include fluoromethyl, difluoromethyl,trifluoromethyl, chloromethyl, dichloromethyl, trichloromethyl,pentafluoroethyl, heptafluoropropyl, difluorochloromethyl,dichlorofluoromethyl, difluoroethyl, difluoropropyl, dichloroethyl anddichloropropyl.

The term “heteroaliphatic” describes a chain of 1 to 25 carbon atoms,typically 1 to 12 carbon atoms, more typically 1 to 10 carbon atoms, andmost typically 1 to 8 carbon atoms, and in some embodiments 1 to 4carbon atoms that can be saturated or unsaturated (but not aromatic),containing one or more heteroatoms, such as halogen, oxygen, nitrogen,sulfur, phosphorus, or boron. A heteroatom atom may be a part of apendant (or side) group attached to a chain of atoms (e.g., —CH(OH)——CH(NH₂)— where the carbon atom is a member of a chain of atoms) or itmay be one of the chain atoms (e.g., —ROR— or —RNHR— where each R isaliphatic). Heteroaliphatic encompasses heteroalkyl and heterocyclo butdoes not encompass heteroaryl.

The term “heteroalkyl” describes a fully saturated heteroaliphaticmoiety.

The term “heteroaryl” means a monocyclic or bicyclic aromatic radical of5 to 10 ring atoms, unless otherwise stated, where one or more, (in oneembodiment, one, two, or three), ring atoms are heteroatom selected fromN, O, or S, the remaining ring atoms being carbon. Representativeexamples include, but are not limited to, pyrrolyl, thienyl, thiazolyl,imidazolyl, furanyl, indolyl, isoindolyl, oxazolyl, isoxazolyl,benzothiazolyl, benzoxazolyl, quinolinyl, isoquinolinyl, pyridinyl,pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, pyridazinyl, triazolyl, tetrazolyl, and thelike. As defined herein, the terms “heteroaryl” and “aryl” are mutuallyexclusive. “Heteroarylene” means a divalent heteroaryl radical.

The term “heteroatom” means an atom other than carbon and hydrogen.Typically, but not exclusively, heteroatoms are selected from the groupconsisting of halogen, sulfur, phosphorous, nitrogen, boron and oxygenatoms. Groups containing more than one heteroatom may contain differentheteroatoms.

The term “heterocyclo,” “heterocyclic,” or heterocyclyl” means asaturated or unsaturated group of 4 to 8 ring atoms in which one or tworing atoms are heteroatom such as N, O, B, P and S(O)_(n), where n is aninteger from 0 to 2, the remaining ring atoms being carbon.Additionally, one or two ring carbon atoms in the heterocyclyl ring canoptionally be replaced by a —C(O)— group. More specifically the termheterocyclyl includes, but is not limited to, pyrrolidino, piperidino,homopiperidino, 2-oxopyrrolidinyl, 2-oxopiperidinyl, morpholino,piperazino, tetrahydro-pyranyl, thiomorpholino, and the like. When theheterocyclyl ring is unsaturated it can contain one or two ring doublebonds provided that the ring is not aromatic. When the heterocyclylgroup contains at least one nitrogen atom, it is also referred to hereinas heterocycloamino and is a subset of the heterocyclyl group.

The term “hydrocarbon group” or “hydrocarbyl group” means a chain of 1to 25 carbon atoms, typically 1 to 12 carbon atoms, more typically 1 to10 carbon atoms, and most typically 1 to 8 carbon atoms. Hydrocarbongroups may have a linear or branched chain structure. Typicalhydrocarbon groups have one or two branches, typically one branch.Typically, hydrocarbon groups are saturated. Unsaturated hydrocarbongroups may have one or more double bonds, one or more triple bonds, orcombinations thereof. Typical unsaturated hydrocarbon groups have one ortwo double bonds or one triple bond; more typically unsaturatedhydrocarbon groups have one double bond.

“Initiator” is a term used to describe a reagent that initiates apolymerization.

The term “molecular weight per nitrogen” or “MW/N” represents thecalculated molecular weight in the polymer per nitrogen atom. Itrepresents the average molecular weight to present one amine functionwithin the crosslinked polymer. It is calculated by dividing the mass ofa polymer sample by the moles of nitrogen present in the sample. “MW/N”is the inverse of theoretical capacity, and the calculations are basedupon the feed ratio, assuming full reaction of crosslinker and monomer.The lower the molecular weight per nitrogen the higher the theoreticalcapacity of the crosslinked polymer.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described eventor circumstance may but need not occur, and that the descriptionincludes instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instancesin which it does not. For example, “heterocyclyl group optionallysubstituted with an alkyl group” means that the alkyl may but need notbe present, and the description includes embodiments in which theheterocyclyl group is substituted with an alkyl group and embodiments inwhich the heterocyclyl group is not substituted with alkyl.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable” as used in connection with a carrier,diluent or excipient means a carrier, diluent or an excipient,respectively, that is useful in preparing a pharmaceutical compositionthat is generally safe, non-toxic and neither biologically nor otherwiseundesirable for veterinary use and/or human pharmaceutical use.

“Simulated Gastric Fluid” or “SGF” Assay describes a test to determinetotal chloride binding capacity for a test polymer using a definedbuffer that simulates the contents of gastric fluid as follows:Simulated gastric fluid (SGF) consists of 35 mM NaCl, 63 mM HCl, pH 1.2.To perform the assay, the free-amine polymer being tested is prepared ata concentration of 2.5 mg/ml (25 mg dry mass) in 10 mL of SGF buffer.The mixture is incubated at 37° C. overnight for ˜12-16 hours withagitation on a rotisserie mixer. Unless another time period is otherwisestated, SGF binding data or binding capacities recited herein aredetermined in a time period of this duration. After incubation andmixing, the tubes containing the polymer are centrifuged for 2 minutesat 500-1000×g to pellet the test samples. Approximately 750 microlitersof supernatant are removed and filtered using an appropriate filter, forexample a 0.45 micrometer pore-size syringe filter or an 800 microliter,1 micrometer pore-size, 96-well, glass filter plate that has been fittedover a 96-well 2 mL collection plate. With the latter arrangementmultiple samples tested in SGF buffer can be prepared for analysis,including the standard controls of free amine sevelamer, free aminebixalomer and a control tube containing blank buffer that is processedthrough all of the assay steps. With the samples arrayed in the filterplate and the collection plate fitted on the bottom, the unit iscentrifuged at 1000×g for 1 minute to filter the samples. In cases ofsmall sample sets, a syringe filter may be used in lieu of the filterplate, to retrieve ˜2-4 mL of filtrate into a 15 mL container. Afterfiltration, the respective filtrates are diluted 4× with water and thechloride content of the filtrate is measured via ion chromatography(IC). The IC method (e.g. Dionex ICS-2100, Thermo Scientific) consistsof an AS11 column and a 15 mM KOH mobile phase, an injection volume of 5microliters, with a run time of 3 minutes, a washing/rinse volume of1000 microliters, and flow rate of 1.25 mL/min. To determine thechloride bound to the polymer, the following calculation is completed:

$\frac{\left( {{{Cl}{start}} - {{Cl}{eq}}} \right) \times 4}{2.5}.$Binding capacity expressed as mmol chloride/g polymer: where Cl startcorresponds to the starting concentration of chloride in the SGF buffer,Cl eq corresponds to the equilibrium value of chloride in the dilutedmeasured filtrates after exposure to the test polymer, 4 is the dilutionfactor and 2.5 is the polymer concentration in mg/ml.

“Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer” or “SIB” is a test todetermine the chloride and phosphate binding capacity of free amine testpolymers in a selective specific interfering buffer assay (SIB). Thechloride and phosphate binding capacity of free amine test polymers,along with the chloride and phosphate binding capacity of free aminesevelamer and bixalomer control polymers, was determined using theselective specific interfering buffer assay (SIB) as follows: The bufferused for the SIB assay comprises 36 mM NaCl, 20 mM NaH₂PO₄, 50 mM2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES) buffered to pH 5.5. The SIBbuffer contains concentrations of chloride, phosphate and pH that arepresent in the human duodenum and upper gastrointestinal tract (StevensT, Conwell D L, Zuccaro G, Van Lente F, Khandwala F, Purich E, et al.Electrolyte composition of endoscopically collected duodenal drainagefluid after synthetic porcine secretin stimulation in healthy subjects.Gastrointestinal endoscopy. 2004; 60(3):351-5, Fordtran J, Locklear T.Ionic constituents and osmolality of gastric and small-intestinal fluidsafter eating. Digest Dis Sci. 1966; 11(7):503-21) and is an effectivemeasure of the selectivity of chloride binding compared to phosphatebinding by a polymer. To perform the assay, the free amine polymer beingtested is prepared at a concentration of 2.5 mg/ml (25 mg dry mass) in10 mL of SIB buffer. The mixture is incubated at 37° C. for 1 hour withagitation on a rotisserie mixer. Unless another time period is otherwisestated, SIB binding data or binding capacities recited herein aredetermined in a time period of this duration. After incubation andmixing, the tubes containing the polymer are centrifuged for 2 minutesat 1000×g to pellet the test samples. 750 microliter of supernatant isremoved and filtered using an 800 microliter, 1 micrometer pore-size,96-well, glass filter plate that has been fitted over a 96-well 2 mLcollection plate; with this arrangement multiple samples tested in SIBbuffer can be prepared for analysis, including the standard controls offree amine sevelamer, free amine bixalomer and a control tube containingblank buffer that is processed through all of the assay steps. With thesamples arrayed in the filter plate and the collection plate fitted onthe bottom, the unit is centrifuged at 1000×g for 1 minute to filter thesamples. In cases of small sample sets, a syringe filter (0.45micrometer) may be used in lieu of the filter plate, to retrieve ˜2-4 mLof filtrate into a 15 mL vial. After filtration into the collectionplate, the respective filtrates are diluted before measuring forchloride or phosphate content. For the measurement of chloride andphosphate, the filtrates under analysis are diluted 4× with water. Thechloride and phosphate content of the filtrate is measured via ionchromatography (IC). The IC method (e.g. Dionex ICS-2100, ThermoScientific) consists of an AS24A column, a 45 mM KOH mobile phase, aninjection volume of 5 microliters, with a run time of about 10 minutes,a washing/rinse volume of 1000 microliter, and flow rate of 0.3 mL/min.To determine the chloride bound to the polymer, the followingcalculation is completed:

${{Binding}{capacity}{expressed}{as}{mmol}{chloride}/g{polymer}} = \frac{\left( {{Cl}_{start} - {Cl}_{final}} \right) \times 4}{2.5}$where Cl_(start) corresponds to the starting concentration of chloridein the SIB buffer, Cl_(final) corresponds to the final value of chloridein the measured diluted filtrates after exposure to the test polymer, 4is the dilution factor and 2.5 is the polymer concentration in mg/ml. Todetermine the phosphate bound to the polymer, the following calculationis completed:

${{Binding}{capacity}{expressed}{as}{mmol}{phosphate}/g{polymer}} = \frac{\left( {P_{start} - P_{final}} \right) \times 4}{2.5}$where P_(start) corresponds to the starting concentration of phosphatein the SIB buffer, P_(final) corresponds to the final value of phosphatein the measured diluted filtrates after exposure to the test polymer, 4is the dilution factor and 2.5 is the polymer concentration in mg/ml.

“Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer” or “SOB” is atest to determine the chloride binding capacity, measured in thepresence of specific organic and inorganic interferents commonly foundin the gastrointestinal tract. The chloride binding capacity, as well asthe binding capacity for other anions, of free amine test polymers andof free amine sevelamer and bixalomer control polymers, was measured inthe presence of specific organic interferents commonly found in thegastrointestinal tract as follows: To mimic the conditions of the GIlumen, the SOB screen is used to determine the chloride binding capacityof free amine polymers when they are exposed to chloride in the presenceof other potential competing anions such as bile acid, fatty acid,phosphate, acetate and citrate. The test buffer used for SOB assaycomprises 50 mM 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES), 50 mM sodiumacetate, 36 mM sodium chloride, 7 mM sodium phosphate, 1.5 mM sodiumcitrate, 30 mM oleic acid and 5 mM Sodium taurocholate, buffered to pH6.2. The concentrations of potential competing anions reflect typicalgastrointestinal lumen concentrations found at various points of the GItract and the pH is an average value representative of pH valuesencountered both the duodenum and the large intestine. The chlorideconcentration used is the same as that used in the SIB screen. Toperform the assay, the free amine polymer to be tested is accuratelyweighed in a 16×100 mm glass tube with a liquid-tight screw cap. Anappropriate amount of SOB buffer is added to the test tube to achieve afinal polymer concentration of 2.5 mg/ml. The mixture is incubated at37° C. for 2 hours (unless a different time is stated) with agitation ona rotisserie mixer. Unless another time period is otherwise stated, SOBbinding data or binding capacities recited herein are determined in atime period of this duration. After incubation and mixing, 600microliters of supernatant is removed and filtered using a 96-well glassfilter plate. With the samples arrayed in the filter plate and thecollection plate fitted on the bottom, the unit is centrifuged at 1000×gfor 1 minute to filter the samples. In cases of small sample sets, asyringe filter may be used in lieu of the filter plate, to retrieve ˜2-4mL of filtrate into a 15 mL vial. After filtration into the collectionplate, the respective filtrates are diluted appropriately beforemeasuring for anion content. The IC method (e.g. Dionex ICS-2100, ThermoScientific) consists of an AS24A column, a KOH gradient from 20 mM to100 mM, an injection volume of 5 microliters, with a run time of about30 minutes, a washing/rinse volume of 1000 microliters, and flow rate of0.3 mL/min. This method is suitable for quantitating chloride,phosphate, and taurocholate. Other appropriate methods may besubstituted. To determine the ions bound to the polymer, the followingcalculation is completed

${{Binding}{capacity}{expressed}{as}{mmol}{of}{ion}/g{polymer}} = \frac{\left( {\lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{start} - \lbrack{Ion}\rbrack_{final}} \right) \times \left\lbrack {{dilution}{factor}} \right\rbrack}{2.5}$where [Ion]_(start) corresponds to the starting concentration of an ionin the SOB buffer, [Ion]_(final) corresponds to the final value of thatparticular ion in the measured filtrates after exposure to the testpolymer, dilution factor is the dilution factor and 2.5 is the polymerconcentration in mg/ml.

The term “substituted hydrocarbyl,” “substituted alkyl,” “substitutedalkenyl,” “substituted aryl,” “substituted heterocyclo,” or “substitutedheteroaryl” as used herein denotes hydrocarbyl, alkyl, alkenyl, aryl,heterocyclo, or heteroaryl moieties which are substituted with at leastone atom other than carbon and hydrogen, including moieties in which acarbon chain atom is substituted with a hetero atom such as nitrogen,oxygen, silicon, phosphorous, boron, sulfur, or a halogen atom. Thesesubstituents include halogen, heterocyclo, alkoxy, alkenoxy, alkynoxy,aryloxy, hydroxy, keto, acyl, acyloxy, nitro, amino, amido, nitro,cyano, thiol, ketals, acetals, esters and ethers.

“Swelling Ratio” or simply “Swelling” describes the amount of waterabsorbed by a given amount of polymer divided by the weight of thepolymer aliquot. The Swelling Ratio is expressed as: swelling=(g swollenpolymer−g dry polymer)/g dry polymer. The method used to determine theSwelling Ratio for any given polymer comprised the following:

-   -   a. 50-100 mg of dry (less than 5 weight % water content) polymer        is placed into an 11 mL sealable test tube (with screw cap) of        known weight (weight of tube=Weight A).    -   b. Deionized water (10 mL) is added to the tube containing the        polymer. The tube is sealed and tumbled for 16 hours (overnight)        at room temperature. After incubation, the tube is centrifuged        at 3000×g for 3 minutes and the supernatant is carefully removed        by vacuum suction. For polymers that form a very loose sediment,        another step of centrifugation is performed.    -   c. After step (b), the weight of swollen polymer plus tube        (Weight B) is recorded.    -   d. Freeze at −40° C. for 30 minutes. Lyophilize for 48 h. Weigh        dried polymer and test tube (recorded as Weight C).    -   e. Calculate g water absorbed per g of polymer, defined as:        [(Weight B−Weight A)−(Weight C−Weight A)]/(Weight C−Weight A).

A “target ion” is an ion to which the polymer binds, and usually refersto the major ions bound by the polymer, or the ions whose binding to thepolymer is thought to produce the therapeutic effect of the polymer(e.g. proton and chloride binding which leads to net removal of HCl).

The term “theoretical capacity” represents the calculated, expectedbinding of hydrochloric acid in an “SGF” assay, expressed in mmol/g. Thetheoretical capacity is based on the assumption that 100% of the aminesfrom the monomer(s) and crosslinker(s) are incorporated in thecrosslinked polymer based on their respective feed ratios. Theoreticalcapacity is thus equal to the concentration of amine functionalities inthe polymer (mmol/g). The theoretical capacity assumes that each amineis available to bind the respective anions and cations and is notadjusted for the type of amine formed (e.g. it does not subtractcapacity of quaternary amines that are not available to bind proton).

“Therapeutically effective amount” means the amount of a proton-bindingcrosslinked amine polymer that, when administered to a patient fortreating a disease, is sufficient to effect such treatment for thedisease. The amount constituting a “therapeutically effective amount”will vary depending on the polymer, the severity of the disease and theage, weight, etc., of the mammal to be treated.

“Treating” or “treatment” of a disease includes (i) inhibiting thedisease, i.e., arresting or reducing the development of the disease orits clinical symptoms; or (ii) relieving the disease, i.e., causingregression of the disease or its clinical symptoms. Inhibiting thedisease, for example, would include prophylaxis.

The term “triallylamine” denotes an amino moiety having three allylgroups.

The term “vinyl” denotes a moiety having the structural formulaR_(x)H_(y)C═CH—*, where * denotes the point of attachment of the moietyto the remainder of the molecule wherein the point of attachment is aheteroatom or aryl, X and Y are independently 0, 1 or 2, such thatX+Y=2, and R is hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl.

The term “weight percent crosslinker” represents the calculatedpercentage, by mass, of a polymer sample that is derived from thecrosslinker. Weight percent crosslinker is calculated using the feedratio of the polymerization, and assumes full conversion of the monomerand crosslinker(s). The mass attributed to the crosslinker is equal tothe expected increase of molecular weight in the infinite polymernetwork after reaction (e.g. 1,3-dichloropropane is 113 amu, but only 42amu are added to a polymer network after crosslinking with DCP becausethe chlorine atoms, as leaving groups, are not incorporated into thepolymer network).

When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferredembodiments(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” areintended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms“comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive andnot exclusive (i.e., there may be other elements in addition to therecited elements).

EMBODIMENTS

As previously noted, among the various aspects of the present disclosuremay be noted treatment methods using compositions comprising anonabsorbed, crosslinked polymer containing free amine moieties. In oneembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymers have the capacity to removeclinically significant quantities of protons and chloride ions from thegastrointestinal tract of an animal, including for example humans, uponadministration of a therapeutically effective amount (i.e., an effectivedose) of the crosslinked amine polymer to achieve a therapeutic orprophylactic benefit.

A therapeutically effective dose of the crosslinked amine polymersdisclosed herein will depend, at least in part, on the disease beingtreated, the capacity of the crosslinked free amine polymer, and theintended effect. In one embodiment, the daily dose of the crosslinkedfree amine polymer is sufficient to retard the rate of reduction ofserum bicarbonate levels over a prolonged period. In another embodiment,the daily dose of the crosslinked free amine polymer is sufficient tomaintain serum bicarbonate levels over a prolonged period. In anotherembodiment, the daily dose of the crosslinked free amine polymer issufficient to increase serum bicarbonate levels over a prolonged period.For example, in one embodiment, the daily dose is sufficient to achieveor maintain a serum bicarbonate level of at least about 20 mEq/L over aprolonged period. By way of further example, in one such embodiment, thedaily dose is sufficient to achieve or maintain a serum bicarbonatelevel of at least about 21 mEq/L over a prolonged period. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment, the daily dose is sufficient toachieve or maintain a serum bicarbonate level of at least about 22 mEq/Lover a prolonged period. In yet another embodiment, the daily dose issufficient to achieve or maintain a serum bicarbonate level of at leastabout 24 mEq/L over a prolonged period. In each of the foregoingembodiments, a prolonged period is a period of at least one month; forexample, at least two months, at least three months, or even at leastseveral months.

In general, the dosage levels of the crosslinked amine polymers fortherapeutic and/or prophylactic uses may range from about 0.5 g/day toabout 20 g/day. To facilitate patient compliance, it is generallypreferred that the dose be in the range of about 1 g/day to about 10g/day. For example, in one such embodiment, the dose will be about 2g/day to about 7 g/day. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment, the dose will be about 3 g/day to about 6 g/day. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment, the dose will be about 4 g/dayto about 5 g/day. Optionally, the daily dose may be administered as asingle dose (i.e., one time a day), or divided into multiple doses(e.g., two, three or more doses) over the course of a day. In generalthe crosslinked amine polymers for therapeutic and/or prophylactic usesmay be administered as a fixed daily dose or titrated based on the serumbicarbonate values of the patient in need of treatment or otherindicators of acidosis. The titration may occur at the onset oftreatment or throughout, as required, and starting and maintenancedosage levels may differ from patient to patient based on severity ofthe underlying disease.

As schematically depicted in FIGS. 1A-1C and in accordance with oneembodiment, a non-absorbed, free-amine polymer of the present disclosureis orally ingested and used to treat metabolic acidosis (including byincreasing serum bicarbonate and normalizing blood pH) in a mammal bybinding HCl in the gastrointestinal (“GI”) tract and removing HClthrough the feces. Free-amine polymer is taken orally (FIG. 1A) atcompliance enhancing dose targeted to chronically bind sufficientamounts of HCl to enable clinically meaningful increase in serumbicarbonate of 3 mEq/L. In the stomach (FIG. 1B), free amine becomesprotonated by binding H⁺. Positive charge on polymer is then availableto bind Cl⁻; by controlling access of binding sites through crosslinkingand hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity properties, other larger organicanions (e.g., acetate, propionate, butyrate, etc., depicted as X⁻ andY⁻) are bound to a lesser degree, if at all. The net effect is thereforebinding of HCl. In the lower GI tract/colon (FIG. 1C), Cl⁻ is not fullyreleased and HCl is removed from the body through regular bowel movementand fecal excretion, resulting in net alkalinization in the serum. Cl⁻bound in this fashion is not available for exchange via the Cl⁻/HCO₃ ⁻antiporter system.

In one embodiment, the polymer is designed to simultaneously maximizeefficacy (net HCl binding and excretion) and minimize GI side effects(through low swelling particle design and particle size distribution).Optimized HCl binding may be accomplished through a careful balance ofcapacity (number of amine binding sites), selectivity (preferred bindingof chloride versus other anions, in particular organic anions in thecolon) and retention (not releasing significant amounts of chloride inthe lower GI tract to avoid the activity of the Cl⁻/HCO₃ ⁻ exchanger[antiporter] in the colon and intestine; if chloride is not tightlybound to the polymer the Cl⁻/HCO₃ ⁻ exchanger can mediate uptake ofchloride ion from the intestinal lumen and reciprocal exchange forbicarbonate from the serum, thus effectively decreasing serumbicarbonate.

Competing anions that displace chloride lead to a decrease in netbicarbonate through the following mechanisms. First, displacement ofchloride from the polymer in the GI lumen, particularly the colon lumen,provides for a facile exchange with bicarbonate in the serum. The colonhas an anion exchanger (chloride/bicarbonate antiporter) that moveschloride from the luminal side in exchange for secreted bicarbonate.When free chloride is released from the polymer in the GI tract it willexchange for bicarbonate, which will then be lost in the stool and causea reduction in total extracellular bicarbonate (Davis, 1983; D'Agostino,1953). The binding of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) in exchange forbound chloride on the polymer, will result in the depletion ofextracellular HCO³⁻ stores. Short chain fatty acids are the product ofbacterial metabolism of complex carbohydrates that are not catabolizedby normal digestive processes (Chemlarova, 2007). Short chain fattyacids that reach the colon are absorbed and distributed to varioustissues, with the common metabolic fate being the generation of H₂O andCO₂, which is converted to bicarbonate equivalents. Thus, binding ofSCFA to the polymer to neutralize the proton charge would be detrimentalto overall bicarbonate stores and buffering capacity, necessitating thedesign of chemical and physical features in the polymer that limit SCFAexchange. Finally, phosphate binding to the polymer should be limited aswell, since phosphate represents an additional source of bufferingcapacity in the situation where ammoniagenesis and/or hydrogen ionsecretion is compromised in chronic renal disease.

For each binding of proton, an anion is preferably bound as the positivecharge seeks to leave the human body as a neutral polymer. “Binding” ofan ion, is more than minimal binding, i.e., at least about 0.2 mmol ofion/g of polymer, at least about 1 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments, at least about 1.5 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments, at least about 3 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments, at least about 5 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments, at least about 10 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments, at least about 12 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments, at least about 13 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments, or even at least about 14 mmol of ion/g of polymer in someembodiments. In one embodiment, the polymers are characterized by theirhigh capacity of proton binding while at the same time providingselectivity for anions; selectivity for chloride is accomplished byreducing the binding of interfering anions that include but are notlimited to phosphate, citrate, acetate, bile acids and fatty acids. Forexample, in some embodiments, polymers of the present disclosure bindphosphate with a binding capacity of less than about 5 mmol/g, less thanabout 4 mmol/g, less than about 3 mmol/g, less than about 2 mmol/g oreven less than about 1 mmol/g. In some embodiments, polymers of theinvention bind bile and fatty acids with a binding capacity of less thanabout less than about 5 mmol/g, less than about 4 mmol/g, less thanabout 3 mmol/g, less than about 2 mmol/g, less than about 1 mmol/g insome embodiments, less than about 0.5 mmol/g in some embodiments, lessthan about 0.3 mmol/g in some embodiments, and less than about 0.1mmol/g in some embodiments.

The effectiveness of the polymer may be established in animal models, orin human volunteers and patients. In addition, in vitro, ex vivo and invivo approaches are useful to establish HCl binding. In vitro bindingsolutions can be used to measure the binding capacity for proton,chloride and other ions at different pHs. Ex vivo extracts, such as thegastrointestinal lumen contents from human volunteers or from modelanimals can be used for similar purposes. The selectivity of bindingand/or retaining certain ions preferentially over others can also bedemonstrated in such in vitro and ex vivo solutions. In vivo models ofmetabolic acidosis can be used to test the effectiveness of the polymerin normalizing acid/base balance—for example 5/6 nephrectomized rats fedcasein-containing chow (as described in Phisitkul S, Hacker C, Simoni J,Tran R M, Wesson D E. Dietary protein causes a decline in the glomerularfiltration rate of the remnant kidney mediated by metabolic acidosis andendothelin receptors. Kidney international. 2008; 73(2):192-9), oradenine-fed rats (Terai K, K Mizukami and M Okada. 2008. Comparison ofchronic renal failure rats and modification of the preparation protocolas a hyperphosphatemia model. Nephrol. 13: 139-146).

In one embodiment, the polymers described in the current disclosure areprovided to an animal, including a human, in once, twice or three timesa day dosing most preferably not exceeding a daily dose of 5 g or lessper day) to treat metabolic acidosis and achieve a clinicallysignificant and sustained increase of serum bicarbonate of approximately3 mEq/L at these daily doses. The amount of HCl binding achieved by oraladministration of the polymer is determined by the polymer bindingcapacity, which is generally in the range of 5-25 mEq of HCl per 1 g ofpolymer. Additionally, the polymer is preferably selective in terms ofthe anion that is bound to counterbalance the proton binding, withchloride being the preferred anion. Anions other than chloride, bound toneutralize the proton positive charge, include phosphate, short chainfatty acids, long chain fatty acids, bile acids or other organic orinorganic anions. Binding of these anions, other than chloride,influences overall bicarbonate stores in the intracellular andextracellular compartments.

In one embodiment, the mechanism of action for the HCl polymeric bindercomprises the following. In the stomach or elsewhere in the GI tract,the free amine polymer becomes protonated by binding proton (H⁺). Thepositive charge formed as a result of this binding is then available forchloride anion binding. After exiting the stomach, the polymersequentially encounters different GI tract environments in the orderduodenum, jejunum, ileum and colon, each with a complement of distinctorganic and inorganic anions. Physical and chemical properties of thepolymer are designed to control access of protonated binding sites tothis collection of anions. Physical barriers include crosslinking (sizeexclusion to prevent anion binding) and chemical moieties (to repellarger, organic ions such as acetate, propionate, butyrate or othershort chain fatty acids commonly present in the colon), and combinationsof the two properties to limit phosphate, bile acid and fatty acidbinding. By tailoring the bead crosslinking and the chemical nature ofthe amine binding sites, chloride can be bound tightly so that exchangefor other anions and release in the lower GI tract is reduced oreliminated. Without being bound by theory, anions with a larger ionicand/or hydration radius than chloride can be excluded, or their bindingreduced, by incorporating these properties into the HCl binding polymer.For example, the ionic radius of chloride, either in the hydrated orunhydrated form is smaller than the corresponding values for phosphateand other anions commonly encountered in the GI tract lumen(Supramolecular Chemistry, Steed, J W (2009) John Wiley and Sons, page226; Kielland, J (1937), J. Am. Chem. Soc. 59:1675-1678). To selectivelybind smaller ions, polymers typically display high crosslinkingdensities in order to create preferential access to the polymer bindingsites. High crosslinking density materials are, however, typicallycharacterized by low Swelling Ratios. The Swelling Ratio, can beaffected by the following composition and process variables: 1) themolar ratio of amine monomer (or polymer) and crosslinker, 2) themonomer+crosslinker to solvent ratio in the crosslinking reaction, 3)the net charge of the polymer (at the physiological pH and tonicity ofthe milieu in which it will be used), 4) the hydrophilic/hydrophobicbalance of the backbone polymer and/or 5) postcrosslinking of anexisting material.

In some embodiments, the theoretical chloride binding capacity of thepolymers of the present disclosure may range from about 1 mmol/g toabout 25 mmol/g. In one embodiment, the theoretical chloride bindingcapacity of the polymer is about 3 mmol/g to about 25 mmol/g. In anotherembodiment, the theoretical chloride binding capacity of the polymer isabout 6 mmol/g to about 20 mmol/g. In another embodiment, thetheoretical chloride binding capacity of the polymer about 9 mmol/g toabout 17 mmol/g.

In one embodiment, a crosslinked polymer of the present disclosure ischaracterized by a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmol/g at1 hour in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). Forexample, in one such embodiment a crosslinked polymer of the presentdisclosure is characterized by a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 2.5 mmol/g at 1 hour in SIB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment a crosslinked polymer of the present disclosure ischaracterized by a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 3 mmol/g at1 hour in SIB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment acrosslinked polymer of the present disclosure is characterized by achloride ion binding capacity of at least 3.5 mmol/g at 1 hour in SIB.By way of further example, in one such embodiment a crosslinked polymerof the present disclosure is characterized by a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g at 1 hour in SIB. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment a crosslinked polymer of the presentdisclosure is characterized by a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 4.5 mmol/g at 1 hour in SIB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment a crosslinked polymer of the present disclosure ischaracterized by a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g at1 hour in SIB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment acrosslinked polymer of the present disclosure is characterized by achloride ion binding capacity of at least 5.5 mmol/g at 1 hour in SIB.By way of further example, in one such embodiment a crosslinked polymerof the present disclosure is characterized by a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 6 mmol/g at 1 hour in SIB. In one exemplaryembodiment of each of the foregoing embodiments of this paragraph, thecrosslinked amine polymer may have a Swelling Ratio not in excess ofabout 1.5.

In one embodiment, a crosslinked polymer of the present disclosure ischaracterized by a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g,and a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 2 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). For example, in one suchembodiment the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ion binding capacity ofless than 2 mmol/g after 1 hour in SIB. By way of further example, inone such embodiment the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 2 mmol/g after 2 hours in SIB. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment the crosslinked amine polymer has achloride ion binding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ionbinding capacity of less than 2 mmol/g after 3 hours in SIB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the crosslinked amine polymerhas a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and aphosphate ion binding capacity of less than 2 mmol/g after 4 hours inSIB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment the crosslinkedamine polymer has a chloride to phosphate ion binding ratio of at least2.5:1, respectively, in SIB. In one exemplary embodiment of each of theforegoing embodiments of this paragraph, the crosslinked amine polymermay have a Swelling Ratio not in excess of about 1.5.

In one embodiment, a crosslinked polymer of the present disclosure ischaracterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity in Simulated Gastric Fluid of at least 8 mmol/g in SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”). For example, in one such embodiment thecrosslinked polymer of the present disclosure is characterized by aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity in SimulatedGastric Fluid of at least 10 mmol/g in SGF. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the crosslinked polymer of the present disclosureis characterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity in SGF of at least 12 mmol/g in SGF. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the crosslinked polymer of the present disclosureis characterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity in SGF of at least 14 mmol/g in SGF. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the crosslinked polymer of the present disclosureis characterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity after 1 hour in SGF that is at least 50% of the proton-bindingcapacity and the chloride binding capacity, respectively, of thecrosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in SGF. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the crosslinked polymer of the present disclosureis characterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity after 1 hour in SGF that is at least 60% of the proton-bindingcapacity and the chloride binding capacity, respectively, of thecrosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in SGF. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the crosslinked polymer of the present disclosureis characterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity after 1 hour in SGF that is at least 70% of the proton-bindingcapacity and the chloride binding capacity, respectively, of thecrosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in SGF. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the crosslinked polymer of the present disclosureis characterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity after 1 hour in SGF that is at least 80% of the proton-bindingcapacity and the chloride binding capacity, respectively, of thecrosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in SGF. By way of further example,in one such embodiment the crosslinked polymer of the present disclosureis characterized by a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity after 1 hour in SGF that is at least 90% of the proton-bindingcapacity and the chloride binding capacity, respectively, of thecrosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in SGF.

In one embodiment, a crosslinked polymer of the present disclosure ischaracterized by a selectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate andtaurocholate in Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer(“SOB”), or a chloride binding capacity at 24 hours in SOB of at least 4mmol/g.

In one embodiment, a crosslinked polymer of the present disclosure ischaracterized by a selectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate andtaurocholate after 1 hour in Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”). For example, in one such embodiment thecrosslinked polymer is characterized by a selectivity for chloride overcitrate, phosphate and taurocholate after 4 hours in SOB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment at the crosslinked polymer ischaracterized by a selectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate andtaurocholate after 12 hours in SOB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment at the crosslinked polymer is characterized by aselectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate and taurocholate after18 hours in SOB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment atthe crosslinked polymer is characterized by a selectivity for chlorideover citrate, phosphate and taurocholate after 24 hours in SOB. By wayof further example, in one such embodiment at the crosslinked polymer ischaracterized by a selectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate andtaurocholate after 30 hours in SOB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment at the crosslinked polymer is characterized by aselectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate and taurocholate after36 hours in SOB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment atthe crosslinked polymer is characterized by a selectivity for chlorideover citrate, phosphate and taurocholate after 42 hours in SOB. By wayof further example, in one such embodiment at the crosslinked polymer ischaracterized by a selectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate andtaurocholate after 48 hours in SOB.

In general, it is preferred that a crosslinked polymer having thecharacteristics described above and elsewhere herein have a pK_(a) of atleast 6, at least 6.5, at least 7, at least 7.5, or at least inphysiological ionic conditions, which are the upper end of the pH valuesencountered along the GI tract (Fallingborg, J Aliment. Pharmacol.Therap [1989] 3:05-613).

In some embodiments, the molecular weight per nitrogen of the polymersof the present disclosure may range from about 40 to about 1000 Daltons.In one embodiment, the molecular weight per nitrogen of the polymer isfrom about 40 to about 500 Daltons. In another embodiment, the molecularweight per nitrogen of the polymer is from about 50 to about 170Daltons. In another embodiment, the molecular weight per nitrogen of thepolymer is from about 60 to about 110 Daltons.

In some embodiments, the crosslinker weight % range will be about 10 to90 weight % of the crosslinked amine polymer. For example, in someembodiments the crosslinker weight % range will be about 15 to 90 weight% of the crosslinked amine polymer or even about 25 to 90 weight % ofthe crosslinked amine polymer.

As previously noted, crosslinked amine polymers having a high capacityfor chloride binding and high selectivity for chloride over othercompeting anions such as phosphate may be prepared in a two-step processin accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. In general,the selectivity of the polymer is a function of its crosslinking densityand the capacity of the polymer is a function of the free amine densityof the crosslinked amine polymer. Advantageously, the two step processdisclosed herein provides both, high capacity for chloride binding, andhigh selectivity for chloride over other competing ions by relyingprimarily upon carbon-carbon crosslinking in the first step, andnitrogen-nitrogen crosslinking in the second step.

In the first step, the crosslinking is preferably capacity-sparing,i.e., free amine sparing, crosslinking from carbon to carbon. In thesecond step, the crosslinking is amine-consuming and is directed towardstuning for selectivity. Based on the desired high capacity, the C—Nratio is preferably optimized to maximize amine functionalities for HClbinding, while still maintaining a spherical polymer particle ofcontrolled particle size to ensure non absorption and acceptable mouthfeel that is stable under GI conditions. The preferred extent ofcarbon-carbon crosslinking achieved after the first step is sufficientto permit the resulting bead to swell between 4× and 6× in water (i.e.,a Swelling Ratio of 4 to 6).

In general, the crosslinked amine polymers may be crosslinkedhomopolymers or crosslinked copolymers comprising free amine moieties.The free amine moieties may be separated, for example, by the same orvarying lengths of repeating linker (or intervening) units. In someembodiments, the polymers comprise repeat units containing an aminemoiety and an intervening linker unit. In other embodiments, multipleamine-containing repeat units are separated by one or more linker units.Additionally, the polyfunctional crosslinkers may comprise HCl bindingfunctional groups, e.g., amines, (“active crosslinkers”) or may lack HClbinding functional groups such as amines (“passive crosslinkers”).

In a preferred embodiment, the first polymerization (crosslinking) stepyields preformed amine polymer beads having a target size and chloridebinding capacity. For example, in one such embodiment the beads having achloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 4 to 6. The resultingpreformed amine polymer is then preferably (at least partially)deprotonated with a base and combined with a non-protonating swellingagent to swell the free amine polymer without protonating the aminefunctions. Furthermore, the amount of the non-protonating swelling agentis selected to tune the subsequent degree of crosslinking effectivelyforming a template that is then locked into place via the amineconsuming crosslinking step. In the second crosslinking step, theswollen, deprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with acrosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer.

In general, selectivity for chloride over other competing ions isachieved with highly crosslinked amine polymers. For example, relativelyhigh chloride binding capacity maybe be attained by reacting a preformedamine polymer bead with neat crosslinker in the presence of a swellingagent (water). While this “non-dispersed” reaction provides access tohigh selectivity for chloride over competing ions in the SIB and SOBassays, it also results in macroscopically (and microscopically)aggregated polymer beads. Accordingly, it is advantageous to include asolvent (e.g., heptane) in the second crosslinking step to disperse thepreformed crosslinked polymer beads so as to avoid inter-bead reactionsand resulting aggregation. The use of too much solvent (dispersant),however, can dilute the reaction solution to the point where theresulting bead is not sufficiently crosslinked to have the desiredselectivity for chloride over other competing anions (see Table 12). Byusing a crosslinking agent that also functions as a solvent(dispersant), however, sufficient solvent (dispersant) may be includedin the reaction mixture to avoid inter-bead reactions and aggregationwithout diluting the mixture to the point where the degree ofamine-consuming crosslinking is insufficient. For example, in an effortto utilize the dispersing properties of a solvent (to avoid aggregationduring the reaction) while maintaining reactivity, DCE and DCP were usedneat, thus performing a dual purpose role, as both solvent (dispersant)and crosslinker. Interestingly, DCE was discovered to have excellentdispersal properties as a solvent, when compared to similar reactionswith DCP and/or heptane. Additionally, less aggregation was observedwhen the beads were first dispersed in DCE and then in a secondoperation, the water is added to swell the beads. If water is added tothe preformed amine polymer before the bead is dispersed in the DCE,aggregation may occur.

The use of 1,2-dichloroethane (“DCE”) as the crosslinking solvent alsogenerates HCl molecules during the second step. These HCl moleculesprotonate some of the free amine sites which block the reaction sitesfor the crosslinking reaction and thereby limit the number of bindingsites available for crosslinking. Consequently, the use of DCE creates aself-limiting effect on the secondary crosslinking.

In each of the foregoing embodiments, the reaction mixture may contain awide range of amounts of crosslinking agents. For example, in oneembodiment the crosslinker may be used in large excess relative to theamount of preformed amine polymer in the reaction mixtures. Stateddifferently, in such embodiments the crosslinking agent is acrosslinking solvent, i.e., it is both a solvent for the reactionmixture and a crosslinking agent for the preformed amine polymer. Insuch embodiments, other solvents may optionally be included in thereaction mixture but are not required. Alternatively, the preformedamine polymer, swelling agent and crosslinker may be dispersed in asolvent that is miscible with the crosslinker and immiscible with theswelling agent. For example, in some embodiments the swelling agent maybe a polar solvent; in some such embodiments, for example, the swellingagent may comprise water, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol,formic acid, acetic acid, acetonitrile, N,N-dimethylformamide,dimethylsulfoxide, nitromethane, or a combination thereof. By way offurther example, when the swelling agent comprises a polar solvent, thesolvent system for the reaction mixture will typically comprise anon-polar solvent such as pentane, cyclopentane, hexane, cyclohexane,benzene, toluene, 1,4-dioxane, chloroform, diethyl ether,dichloromethane, dichloroethane, dichloropropane, dichlorobutane, or acombination thereof. In certain embodiments, the crosslinker and thesolvent may be the same; i.e., the solvent is a crosslinking solventsuch as 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,3-dichloropropane, 1,4-dichlorobutane or acombination thereof.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is dispersed in areaction mixture comprising a crosslinking agent, a swelling agent forthe preformed amine polymer, and a (dispersing) solvent. In one suchembodiment, for example, the ratio of (dispersing) solvent to preformedamine polymer in the reaction mixture is at least 2:1 (milliliters ofsolvent:grams of preformed amine polymer). By way of further example, inone such embodiment the ratio of (dispersing) solvent to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture is at least 3:1 (milliliters ofsolvent:grams of preformed amine polymer). By way of further example, inone such embodiment the ratio of (dispersing) solvent to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture is at least 4:1 (milliliters ofsolvent:grams of preformed amine polymer). By way of further example, inone such embodiment the ratio of (dispersing) solvent to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture is at least 5:1 (milliliters ofsolvent:grams of preformed amine polymer). By way of further example, inone such embodiment the ratio of (dispersing) solvent to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture is at least 7.5:1 (milliliters ofsolvent:grams of preformed amine polymer). By way of further example, inone such embodiment the ratio of (dispersing) solvent to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture is at least 10:1 (milliliters ofsolvent:grams of preformed amine polymer). In each of the foregoingembodiments, the (dispersing) solvent may comprise a combination of aninert solvent (relative to the preformed amine polymer) such as one ofthe previously identified non-polar solvents and a crosslinking solventor the (dispersing) solvent may exclusively comprise a crosslinkingsolvent (e.g., DCE or DCP).

It is notable that in a crosslinking solvent (e.g., a DCE-dispersedreaction), there is a large excess of crosslinker regardless of theamount of crosslinking solvent (e.g., DCE) used to disperse the bead(e.g., both 1 g:3 mL::bead:DCE and 1 g:10 mL::bead:DCE are a largeexcess of crosslinker, most of which is not consumed during thereaction). Despite this, the relative degree of crosslinking, and theperformance in SIB and SOB assays, are unaffected by changes in theratio of reactive crosslinker to polymer bead (see Table 6). This ispossible because the reaction is limited by the acid-neutralizingcapacity of the polymer bead, rather than the amount of crosslinker(e.g., DCE).

To more efficiently react with DCE or other crosslinker, the amines ofthe preformed polymer bead preferably have a free electron pair(neutral, deprotonated). As the free amines of the preformed polymerbead react with the crosslinker (e.g., DCE), HCl is produced and theamines become protonated, thus limiting the reaction. For this reason,the preformed amine polymer beads preferably start as the free amine inthe second crosslinking step. If the preformed amine polymer bead isprotonated after the first step of carbon-carbon crosslinking,amine-consuming crosslinking in the second step will be limited, thusreducing the desired selectivity for chloride over other competing ions.This has been demonstrated by adding known quantities of HCl topreformed amine polymer beads immediately before second stepcrosslinking with DCE (TABLE 7). When less than 3 mol % HCl (to amine inpreformed polymer amine bead) is added prior to second stepcrosslinking, total chloride capacity (SGF) and chloride selectivity inSIB and SOB are similar to beads not treated with HCl in the secondstep. When greater than 5 mol % HCl (to amine in preformed polymer aminebead) is added prior to second step crosslinking, total chloridecapacity (SGF) increases and chloride selectivity in SIB and SOBdecreases, indicating lower incorporation of crosslinker.

The benefits of deprotonated preformed polymer beads in the second stepcrosslinking highlights the advantages of using two steps to achieve thefinal product. In the first step, to form the amine polymer bead, allmonomers (e.g., allylamine and DAPDA) are protonated to remain in theaqueous phase and to avoid the radical transfer reactions that severelylimit the polymerization of non-protonated allylamine (and derivatives).Once the bead is formed through carbon-carbon crosslinks, the bead canthen be deprotonated and further crosslinked with an amine reactivecrosslinker in a second step.

Given the large excess of dual crosslinker/solvent, mono-incorporationof this reagent can occur leading to alkyl chloride functional groups onthe crosslinked polymer bead that are hydrophobic in nature and canincrease non-specific interactions with undesirable solutes other thanHCl that are more hydrophobic in nature. Washing with ammonium hydroxidesolution converts the alkyl-chloride to alkyl-amine functions that arehydrophilic and minimize non-specific interactions with undesirablesolutes. Other modifications that yield more hydrophilic groups thanalkyl chloride such as —OH are suitable to quench mono-incorporatedcrosslinker/solvent.

Any of a range of polymerization chemistries may be employed in thefirst reaction step, provided that the crosslinking mechanism isprimarily carbon-carbon crosslinking. Thus, in one exemplary embodiment,the first reaction step comprises radical polymerization. In suchreactions, the amine monomer will typically be a mono-functional vinyl,allyl, or acrylamide (e.g., allylamine) and crosslinkers will have twoor more vinyl, allyl or acrylamide functionalities (e.g., diallylamine).Concurrent polymerization and crosslinking occurs through radicallyinitiated polymerization of a mixture of the mono- and multifunctionalallylamines. The resulting polymer network is thusly crosslinked throughthe carbon backbone. Each crosslinking reaction forms a carbon-carbonbond (as opposed to substitution reactions in which a carbon-heteroatombond is formed during crosslinking). During the concurrentpolymerization and crosslinking, the amine functionalities of themonomers do not undergo crosslinking reactions and are preserved in thefinal polymer (i.e., primary amines remain primary, secondary aminesremain secondary, and tertiary amines remain tertiary).

In those embodiments in which the first reaction step comprises radicalpolymerization, a wide range of initiators may be used includingcationic and radical initiators. Some examples of suitable initiatorsthat may be used include: the free radical peroxy and azo typecompounds, such as azodiisobutyronitrile, azodiisovaleronitrile,dimethylazodiisobutyrate, 2,2′azo bis(isobutyronitrile),2,2′-azobis(N,N′-dimethy1-eneisobutyramidine)dihydrochloride,2,2′-azobis(2-amidinopropane)dihydrochloride,2,2′-azobis(N,N′-dimethyleneisobutyramidine), 1,1′-azobis(I-cyclohexanecarbo-nitrile), 4,4′-azobis(4-cyanopentanoic acid),2,2′-azobis(isobutyramide)dihydrate, 2,2′-azobis(2-methylpropane),2,2′-azobis(2-methylbutyronitrile), VAZO 67, cyanopentanoic acid, theperoxypivalates, dodecylbenzene peroxide, benzoyl peroxide, di-t-butylhydroperoxide, t-butyl peracetate, acetyl peroxide, dicumyl peroxide,cumylhydroperoxide, dimethyl bis(butylperoxy)hexane.

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer comprises the residueof an amine corresponding to Formula 1:

wherein R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl,substituted hydrocarbyl provided, however, at least one of R₁, R₂ and R₃is other than hydrogen. Stated differently, at least one of R₁, R₂ andR₃ is hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl, and the others of R₁, R₂and R₃ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, or substitutedhydrocarbyl. In one embodiment, for example, R₁, R₂ and R₃ areindependently hydrogen, aryl, aliphatic, heteroaryl, or heteroaliphaticprovided, however, each of R₁, R₂ and R₃ are not hydrogen. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independentlyhydrogen, saturated hydrocarbons, unsaturated aliphatic, unsaturatedheteroaliphatic, heteroalkyl, heterocyclic, aryl or heteroaryl,provided, however, each of R₁, R₂ and R₃ are not hydrogen. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independentlyhydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, allyl, vinyl, aryl, aminoalkyl, alkanol,haloalkyl, hydroxyalkyl, ethereal, heteroaryl or heterocyclic provided,however, each of R₁, R₂ and R₃ are not hydrogen. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independentlyhydrogen, alkyl, aminoalkyl, alkanol, aryl, haloalkyl, hydroxyalkyl,ethereal, heteroaryl or heterocyclic provided, however, each of R₁, R₂and R₃ are not hydrogen. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment R₁ and R₂ (in combination with the nitrogen atom to whichthey are attached) together constitute part of a ring structure, so thatthe monomer as described by Formula 1 is a nitrogen-containingheterocycle (e.g., piperidine) and R₃ is hydrogen, or heteroaliphatic.By way of further example, in one embodiment R₁, R₂ and R₃ areindependently hydrogen, aliphatic or heteroaliphatic provided, however,at least one of R₁, R₂ and R₃ is other than hydrogen. By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independently hydrogen,allyl, or aminoalkyl.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer comprises the residue ofan amine corresponding to Formula 1 wherein R₁, R₂, and R₃ areindependently hydrogen, heteroaryl, aryl, aliphatic or heteroaliphaticprovided, however, at least one of R₁, R₂, and R₃ is aryl or heteroaryl.For example, in this embodiment R₁ and R₂, in combination with thenitrogen atom to which they are attached, may form a saturated orunsaturated nitrogen-containing heterocyclic ring. By way of furtherexample, R₁ and R₂, in combination with the nitrogen atom to which theyare attached may constitute part of a pyrrolidino, pyrrole,pyrazolidine, pyrazole, imidazolidine, imidazole, piperidine, pyridine,piperazine, diazine, or triazine ring structure. By way of furtherexample, R₁ and R₂, in combination with the nitrogen atom to which theyare attached may constitute part of a piperidine ring structure.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer comprises the residue ofan amine corresponding to Formula 1 wherein R₁, R₂, and R₃ areindependently hydrogen, aliphatic, or heteroaliphatic provided, however,at least one of R₁, R₂, and R₃ is other than hydrogen. For example, inthis embodiment R₁, R₂, and R₃ may independently be hydrogen, alkyl,alkenyl, allyl, vinyl, aminoalkyl, alkanol, haloalkyl, hydroxyalkyl,ethereal, or heterocyclic provided, however, at least one of R₁, R₂, andR₃ is other than hydrogen. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment R₁ and R₂, in combination with the nitrogen atom to whichthey are attached, may form a saturated or unsaturatednitrogen-containing heterocyclic ring. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment R₁ and R₂, in combination with the nitrogen atom towhich they are attached may constitute part of a pyrrolidino, pyrrole,pyrazolidine, pyrazole, imidazolidine, imidazole, piperidine,piperazine, or diazine ring structure. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment R₁ and R₂, in combination with the nitrogen atom towhich they are attached may constitute part of a piperidine ringstructure. By way of further example, in one such embodiment the aminecorresponding to Formula 1 is acyclic and at least one of R₁, R₂, and R₃is aliphatic or heteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment R₁, R₂, and R₃ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, allyl,vinyl, alicyclic, aminoalkyl, alkanol, or heterocyclic, provided atleast one of R₁, R₂, and R₃ is other than hydrogen.

In some embodiments, an amine-containing monomer is polymerized and thepolymer is concurrently crosslinked in a substitution polymerizationreaction in the first reaction step. The amine reactant (monomer) in theconcurrent polymerization and crosslinking reaction can react more thanone time for the substitution polymerization. In one such embodiment,the amine monomer is a linear amine possessing at least two reactiveamine moieties to participate in the substitution polymerizationreaction. In another embodiment, the amine monomer is a branched aminepossessing at least two reactive amine moieties to participate in thesubstitution polymerization reaction. Crosslinkers for the concurrentsubstitution polymerization and crosslinking typically have at least twoamine-reactive moieties such as alkyl-chlorides, and alkyl-epoxides. Inorder to be incorporated into the polymer, primary amines react at leastonce and potentially may react up to three times with the crosslinker,secondary amines can react up to twice with the crosslinkers, andtertiary amines can only react once with the crosslinker. In general,however, the formation of a significant number of quaternarynitrogens/amines is generally not preferred because quaternary aminescannot bind protons.

Exemplary amines that may be used in substitution polymerizationreactions described herein include1,3-Bis[bis(2-aminoethyl)amino]propane,3-Amino-1-{[2-(bis{2-[bis(3-aminopropyl)amino]ethyl}amino)ethyl](3-aminopropyl)amino}propane,2-[Bis(2-aminoethyl)amino]ethanamine, Tris(3-aminopropyl)amine,1,4-Bis[bis(3-aminopropyl)amino]butane, 1,2-Ethanediamine,2-Amino-1-(2-aminoethylamino)ethane, 1,2-Bis(2-aminoethylamino)ethane,1,3-Propanediamine, 3,3′-Diaminodipropylamine,2,2-dimethyl-1,3-propanediamine, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediamine,N,N′-dimethyl-1,3-propanediamine, N-methyl-1,3-diaminopropane,3,3′-diamino-N-methyldipropylamine, 1,3-diaminopentane,1,2-diamino-2-methylpropane, 2-methyl-1,5-diaminopentane,1,2-diaminopropane, 1,10-diaminodecane, 1,8-diaminooctane,1,9-diaminooctane, 1,7-diaminoheptane, 1,6-diaminohexane,1,5-diaminopentane, 3-bromopropylamine hydrobromide,N,2-dimethyl-1,3-propanediamine, N-isopropyl-1,3-diaminopropane,N,N′-bis(2-aminoethyl)-1,3-propanediamine,N,N′-bis(3-aminopropyl)ethylenediamine,N,N′-bis(3-aminopropyl)-1,4-butanediamine tetrahydrochloride,1,3-diamino-2-propanol, N-ethylethylenediamine,2,2′-diamino-N-methyldiethylamine, N,N′-diethylethylenediamine,N-isopropylethylenediamine, N-methylethylenediamine,N,N′-di-tert-butylethylenediamine, N,N′-diisopropylethylenediamine,N,N′-dimethylethylenediamine, N-butylethylenediamine,2-(2-aminoethylamino)ethanol, 1,4,7,10,13,16-hexaazacyclooctadecane,1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane, 1,4,7-triazacyclononane,N,N′-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)ethylenediamine, piperazine,bis(hexamethylene)triamine, N-(3-hydroxypropyl)ethylenediamine,N-(2-Aminoethyl)piperazine, 2-Methylpiperazine, Homopiperazine,1,4,8,11-Tetraazacyclotetradecane, 1,4,8,12-Tetraazacyclopentadecane,2-(Aminomethyl)piperidine, 3-(Methylamino)pyrrolidine

Exemplary crosslinking agents that may be used in substitutionpolymerization reactions and post-polymerization crosslinking reactionsinclude, but are not limited to, one or more multifunctionalcrosslinking agents such as: dihaloalkanes, haloalkyloxiranes,alkyloxirane sulfonates, di(haloalkyl)amines, tri(haloalkyl)amines,diepoxides, triepoxides, tetraepoxides, bis(halomethyl)benzenes,tri(halomethyl)benzenes, tetra(halomethyl)benzenes, epihalohydrins suchas epichlorohydrin and epibromohydrin poly(epichlorohydrin),(iodomethyl)oxirane, glycidyl tosylate, glycidyl3-nitrobenzenesulfonate, 4-tosyloxy-1,2-epoxybutane,bromo-1,2-epoxybutane, 1,2-dibromoethane, 1,3-dichloropropane,1,2-dichloroethane, I-bromo-2-chloroethane, 1,3-dibromopropane,bis(2-chloroethyl)amine, tris(2-chloroethyl)amine, andbis(2-chloroethyl)methylamine, 1,3-butadiene diepoxide, 1,5-hexadienediepoxide, diglycidyl ether, 1,2,7,8-diepoxyoctane,1,2,9,10-diepoxydecane, ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether, propyleneglycol diglycidyl ether, 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether, 1,2ethanedioldiglycidyl ether, glycerol diglycidyl ether, 1,3-diglycidylglyceryl ether, N,N-diglycidylaniline, neopentyl glycol diglycidylether, diethylene glycol diglycidyl ether, 1,4-bis(glycidyloxy)benzene,resorcinol digylcidyl ether, 1,6-hexanediol diglycidyl ether,trimethylolpropane diglycidyl ether, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanoldiglycidyl ether, 1,3-bis-(2,3-epoxypropyloxy)-2-(2,3-dihydroxypropyloxy)propane, 1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid diglycidyl ester,2,2′-bis(glycidyloxy)diphenylmethane, bisphenol F diglycidyl ether,1,4-bis(2′,3′epoxypropyl)perfluoro-n-butane,2,6-di(oxiran-2-ylmethyl)-1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydropyrrolo[3,4-f]isoindol-1,3,5,7-tetraone,bisphenol A diglycidyl ether, ethyl5-hydroxy-6,8-di(oxiran-2-ylmethyl)-4-oxo-4-h-chromene-2-carboxylate,bis[4-(2,3-epoxy-propylthio)phenyl]-sulfide,1,3-bis(3-glycidoxypropyl)tetramethyldisiloxane,9,9-bis[4-(glycidyloxy)phenyl]fluorine, triepoxyisocyanurate, glyceroltriglycidyl ether, N,N-diglycidyl-4-glycidyloxyaniline, isocyanuric acid(S,S,S)-triglycidyl ester, isocyanuric acid (R,R,R)-triglycidyl ester,triglycidyl isocyanurate, trimethylolpropane triglycidyl ether, glycerolpropoxylate triglycidyl ether, triphenylolmethane triglycidyl ether,3,7,14-tris[[3-(epoxypropoxy)propyl]dimethylsilyloxy]-1,3,5,7,9,11,14-heptacyclopentyltricyclo[7,3,3,15,11]heptasiloxane, 4,4′methylenebis(N,N-diglycidylaniline),bis(halomethyl)benzene, bis(halomethyl)biphenyl andbis(halomethyl)naphthalene, toluene diisocyanate, acrylol chloride,methyl acrylate, ethylene bisacrylamide, pyrometallic dianhydride,succinyl dichloride, dimethylsuccinate,3-chloro-1-(3-chloropropylamino-2-propanol,1,2-bis(3-chloropropylamino)ethane, Bis(3-chloropropyl)amine,1,3-Dichloro-2-propanol, 1,3-Dichloropropane, 1-chloro-2,3-epoxypropane,tris[(2-oxiranyl)methyl]amine.

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 1aand the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by radical polymerizationof an amine corresponding to Formula 1a:

wherein R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, orsubstituted hydrocarbyl. In one embodiment, for example, R₄ and R₅ areindependently hydrogen, saturated hydrocarbon, unsaturated aliphatic,aryl, heteroaryl, unsaturated heteroaliphatic, heterocyclic, orheteroalkyl. By way of further example, in one such embodiment R₄ and R₅are independently hydrogen, aliphatic, heteroaliphatic, aryl, orheteroaryl. By way of further example, in one such embodiment R₄ and R₅are independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, allyl, vinyl, aryl,aminoalkyl, alkanol, haloalkyl, hydroxyalkyl, ethereal, heteroaryl orheterocyclic. By way of further example, in one such embodiment R₄ andR₅ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, allyl, aminoalkyl, alkanol, aryl,haloalkyl, hydroxyalkyl, ethereal, or heterocyclic. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment R₄ and R₅ (in combination with thenitrogen atom to which they are attached) together constitute part of aring structure, so that the monomer as described by Formula 1a is anitrogen-containing heterocycle (e.g., piperidine). By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen,aliphatic or heteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in oneembodiment R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, allyl, or aminoalkyl.

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 1band the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 1b with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties):

wherein R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, orsubstituted hydrocarbyl, R₆ is aliphatic and R₆₁ and R₆₂ areindependently hydrogen, aliphatic, or heteroaliphatic. In oneembodiment, for example, R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, saturatedhydrocarbon, unsaturated aliphatic, aryl, heteroaryl, heteroalkyl, orunsaturated heteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, aliphatic,heteroaliphatic, aryl, or heteroaryl. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl,allyl, vinyl, aryl, aminoalkyl, alkanol, haloalkyl, hydroxyalkyl,ethereal, heteroaryl or heterocyclic. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl,aminoalkyl, alkanol, aryl, haloalkyl, hydroxyalkyl, ethereal, heteroarylor heterocyclic. By way of further example, in one such embodiment R₄and R₅ (in combination with the nitrogen atom to which they areattached) together constitute part of a ring structure, so that themonomer as described by Formula 1a is a nitrogen-containing heterocycle(e.g., piperidine). By way of further example, in one embodiment R₄ andR₅ are independently hydrogen, aliphatic or heteroaliphatic. By way offurther example, in one embodiment R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen,allyl, or aminoalkyl. By way of further example, in each of theembodiments recited in this paragraph, R₆ may be methylene, ethylene orpropylene, and R₆₁ and R₆₂ may independently be hydrogen, allyl oraminoalkyl.

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 1c:

wherein R₇ is hydrogen, aliphatic or heteroaliphatic and R₈ is aliphaticor heteroaliphatic. For example, in one such embodiment, for example, R₇is hydrogen and R₈ is aliphatic or heteroaliphatic. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment R₇ and R₈ are independently aliphatic orheteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one such embodiment atleast one of R₇ and R₈ comprises an allyl moiety. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment at least one of R₇ and R₈ comprises anaminoalkyl moiety. By way of further example, in one such embodiment R₇and R₈ each comprise an allyl moiety. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment R₇ and R₈ each comprise an aminoalkyl moiety. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment R₇ comprises an allyl moiety andR₈ comprises an aminoalkyl moiety.

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2:

wherein

m and n are independently non-negative integers;

R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, orsubstituted hydrocarbyl;

X₁ is

X₂ is hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl;

each X₁₁ is independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, substitutedhydrocarbyl, hydroxyl, amino, boronic acid, or halo; and

z is a non-negative number.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by (i) substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 2 with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties)or (2) radical polymerization of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,and m and n are independently 0, 1, 2 or 3 and n is 0 or 1.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by (i) substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 2 with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties)or (2) radical polymerization of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,and R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independently hydrogen, aliphatic, aryl,heteroaliphatic, or heteroaryl. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independently hydrogen, aliphatic,or heteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one such embodimentR₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, allyl, vinyl,or aminoalkyl. By way of further example, in one such embodiment R₁₀,R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, allyl, vinyl,—(CH₂)_(d)NH₂, —(CH₂)_(d)N[(CH₂)_(e)NH₂)]₂ where d and e areindependently 2-4. In each of the foregoing exemplary embodiments ofthis paragraph, m and z may independently be 0, 1, 2 or 3 and n is 0 or1.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by (i) substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 2 with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties)or (2) radical polymerization of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,and X₂ is aliphatic or heteroaliphatic. For example, in one suchembodiment X₂ is aliphatic or heteroaliphatic and R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀are independently hydrogen, aliphatic, heteroaliphatic. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment X₂ is alkyl or aminoalkyl andR₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independently hydrogen, aliphatic, orheteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one such embodiment X₂ isalkyl or aminoalkyl and R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independentlyhydrogen, alkyl, allyl, vinyl, or aminoalkyl. In each of the foregoingexemplary embodiments of this paragraph, m and z may independently be 0,1, 2 or 3 and n is 0 or 1.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by (i) substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 2 with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties)or (2) radical polymerization of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,and m is a positive integer. For example, in one such embodiment m is apositive integer, z is zero and R₂₀ is hydrogen, aliphatic orheteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one such embodiment m isa positive integer (e.g., 1 to 3), z is a positive integer (e.g., 1 to2), X₁₁ is hydrogen, aliphatic or heteroaliphatic, and R₂₀ is hydrogen,aliphatic or heteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment m is a positive integer, z is zero, one or two, X₁₁ ishydrogen alkyl, alkenyl, or aminoalkyl, and R₂₀ is hydrogen, alkyl,alkenyl, or aminoalkyl.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by (i) substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 2 with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties)or (2) radical polymerization of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,and n is a positive integer and R₃₀ is hydrogen, aliphatic orheteroaliphatic. By way of further example, in one such embodiment n is0 or 1, and R₃₀ is hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl, or aminoalkyl.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by (i) substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 2 with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties)or (2) radical polymerization of an amine corresponding to Formula 2,and m and n are independently non-negative integers and X₂ is aliphaticor heteroaliphatic. For example, in one such embodiment m is 0 to 2, nis 0 or 1, X₂ is aliphatic or heteroaliphatic, and R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, andR₄₀ are independently hydrogen, aliphatic, or heteroaliphatic. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment m is 0 to 2, n is 0 or 1, X₂ isalkyl or aminoalkyl, and R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independentlyhydrogen, aliphatic, or heteroaliphatic. By way of further example, inone such embodiment m is 0 to 2, n is 0 or 1, X₂ is alkyl or aminoalkyl,and R₁₀, R₂₀, R₃₀, and R₄₀ are independently hydrogen, alkyl, alkenyl,or aminoalkyl.

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2aand the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by substitutionpolymerization of the amine corresponding to Formula 2a with apolyfunctional crosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties):

wherein

m and n are independently non-negative integers;

each R₁₁ is independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, heteroaliphatic, orheteroaryl;

R₂₁ and R₃₁, are independently hydrogen or heteroaliphatic;

R₄₁ is hydrogen, substituted hydrocarbyl, or hydrocarbyl;

X₁ is

X₂ is alkyl or substituted hydrocarbyl;

each X₁₂ is independently hydrogen, hydroxy, amino, aminoalkyl, boronicacid or halo; and

z is a non-negative number.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2a,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by substitution polymerizationof the amine corresponding to Formula 1 with a polyfunctionalcrosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties). For example, inone such embodiment, m and z are independently 0, 1, 2 or 3, and n is 0or 1.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2a,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by substitution polymerizationof the amine corresponding to Formula 2a with a polyfunctionalcrosslinker (optionally also comprising amine moieties), and each R₁₁ isindependently hydrogen, aliphatic, aminoalkyl, haloalkyl, or heteroaryl,R₂₁ and R₃₁ are independently hydrogen or heteroaliphatic and R₄₁ ishydrogen, aliphatic, aryl, heteroaliphatic, or heteroaryl. For example,in one such embodiment each R₁₁ is hydrogen, aliphatic, aminoalkyl, orhaloalkyl, R₂₁ and R₃₁ are independently hydrogen or heteroaliphatic andR₄₁ is hydrogen, alkylamino, aminoalkyl, aliphatic, or heteroaliphatic.By way of further example, in one such embodiment each R₁₁ is hydrogen,aliphatic, aminoalkyl, or haloalkyl, R₂₁ and R₃₁ are hydrogen oraminoalkyl, and R₄₁ is hydrogen, aliphatic, or heteroaliphatic. By wayof further example, in one such embodiment each R₁₁ and R₄₁ isindependently hydrogen, alkyl, or aminoalkyl, and R₂₁ and R₃₁ areindependently hydrogen or heteroaliphatic. By way of further example, inone such embodiment each R₁₁ and R₄₁ is independently hydrogen, alkyl,—(CH₂)_(d)NH₂, —(CH₂)_(d)N[(CH₂)_(e)NH₂)]₂ where d and e areindependently 2-4, and R₂₁ and R₃₁ are independently hydrogen orheteroaliphatic. In each of the foregoing exemplary embodiments of thisparagraph, m and z may independently be 0, 1, 2 or 3, and n is 0 or 1.

Exemplary amines for the synthesis of polymers comprising repeat unitscorresponding to Formula 2a include, but are not limited to, aminesappearing in Table A.

TABLE A Abbreviation IUPAC name Other names MW (g/mol) C2A3BTA1,3-Bis[bis(2- aminoethyl) amino]propane

288.48 C2A3G2 3-Amino-1-{[2- (bis{2-[bis(3- aminopropyl)amino] ethyl}amino)ethyl](3- aminopropyl)amino} propane

488.81 C2PW 2-[Bis(2-aminoethyl) amino]ethanamine 2,2′,2″-Triaminotriethylamine or 2,2′,2″- Nitrilotriethylamine

146.24 C3PW Tris(3-aminopropyl) amine

188.32 C4A3BTA 1,4-Bis[bis(3- aminopropyl) amino]butane

316.54 EDA1 1,2-Ethanediamine

60.1 EDA2 2-Amino-1-(2- aminoethylamino) ethane Bis(2-aminoethyl) amineor 2,2′- Diaminodiethylamine

103.17 EDA3 1,2-Bis(2- aminoethylamino) ethane N,N′-Bis(2-aminoethyl)ethane- 1,2-diamine

146.24 PDA1 1,3-Propanediamine

74.3 PDA2 3,3′- Diaminodipropylamine

131.22

Exemplary crosslinkers for the synthesis of polymers comprising theresidue of amines corresponding to Formula 2a include but are notlimited to crosslinkers appearing in Table B.

TABLE B MW Abbreviation Common name IUPAC name (g/mol) BCPA Bis(3-chloropropyl)amine Bis(3- chloropropyl)amine

206.54 DC2OH 1,3- dichloroisopropanol 1,3-Dichloro-2-propanol

128.98 DCE dichloroethane 1,2-dichloroethane

98.96 DCP Dichloropropane 1,3-Dichloropropane

112.98 ECH Epichlorohydrin 1-chloro-2,3- epoxypropane

92.52 TGA Triglycidyl amine Tris[(2- oxiranyl)methyl]amine

185.22 BCPOH Bis(3-chloropropyl) amine-OH 3-Chloro-1-(3-chloropropylamino)-2- propanol

186.08 BCPEDA Bis(chloropropyl) ethylenediamine 1,2-Bis(3-chloropropylamino)ethane

213.15

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2band the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by radical polymerizationof an amine corresponding to Formula 2b:

-   -   wherein    -   m and n are independently non-negative integers;    -   each R₁₂ is independently hydrogen, substituted hydrocarbyl, or        hydrocarbyl;    -   R₂₂ and R₃₂ are independently hydrogen substituted hydrocarbyl,        or hydrocarbyl;    -   R₄₂ is hydrogen, hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl;    -   X₁ is

-   -   X₂ is alkyl, aminoalkyl, or alkanol;    -   each X₁₃ is independently hydrogen, hydroxy, alicyclic, amino,        aminoalkyl, halogen, alkyl, heteroaryl, boronic acid or aryl;    -   z is a non-negative number, and    -   the amine corresponding to Formula 2b comprises at least one        allyl group.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2b,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by radical polymerization ofan amine corresponding to Formula 2b, and m and z are independently 0,1, 2 or 3, and n is 0 or 1.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2b,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by radical polymerization ofan amine corresponding to Formula 1, and (i) R₁₂ or R₄₂ independentlycomprise at least one allyl or vinyl moiety, (ii) m is a positiveinteger and R₂₂ comprises at least one allyl or vinyl moiety, and/or(iii) n is a positive integer and R₃₂ comprises at least one allylmoiety. For example, in one such embodiment, m and z are independently0, 1, 2 or 3 and n is 0 or 1. For example, in one such embodiment R₁₂ orR₄₂, in combination comprise at least two allyl or vinyl moieties. Byway of further example, in one such embodiment, m is a positive integerand R₁₂, R₂₂ and R₄₂, in combination comprise at least two allyl orvinyl moieties. By way of further example, in one such embodiment, n isa positive integer and R₁₂, R₃₂ and R₄₂, in combination comprise atleast two allyl or vinyl moieties. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment, m is a positive integer, n is a positive integer andR₁₂, R₂₂, R₃₂ and R₄₂, in combination, comprise at least two allyl orvinyl moieties.

In one embodiment, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising the residue of an amine corresponding to Formula 2b,the crosslinked amine polymer is prepared by radical polymerization ofan amine corresponding to Formula 2b, and each R₁₂ is independentlyhydrogen, aminoalkyl, allyl, or vinyl, R₂₂ and R₃₂ are independentlyhydrogen, alkyl, aminoalkyl, haloalkyl, alkenyl, alkanol, heteroaryl,alicyclic heterocyclic, or aryl, and R₄₂ is hydrogen or substitutedhydrocarbyl. For example, in one such embodiment each R₁₂ is aminoalkyl,allyl or vinyl, R₂₂ and R₃₂ are independently hydrogen, alkyl,aminoalkyl, haloalkyl, alkenyl, or alkanol, and R₄₂ is hydrogen orsubstituted hydrocarbyl. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment each R₁₂ and R₄₂ is independently hydrogen, alkyl, allyl,vinyl, —(CH₂)_(d)NH₂ or —(CH₂)_(d)N[(CH₂)_(e)NH₂]₂ where d and e areindependently 2-4, and R₂₂ and R₃₂ are independently hydrogen orheteroaliphatic.

Exemplary amines and crosslinkers (or the salts thereof, for example thehydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, or hydrobromic acidsalts thereof) for the synthesis of polymers described by Formula 2binclude but are not limited to the ones in Table C.

TABLE C MW Abbreviation Common name IUPAC name (g/mol) DABDA1Diallylbutyldiamine 1,4- Bis(allylamino)butane

241.2 DAEDA1 Diallylethyldiamine 1,2- Bis(allylamino)ethane

213.15 DAEDA2 Diallyldiethylenetriamine 2-(Allylamino)-1-[2-(allylamino) ethylamino]ethane

292.67 DAPDA Diallylpropyldiamine 1,3- Bis(allylamino)propane

227.17 POHDA Diallylamineisopropanol 1,3-Bis(allylamino)-2- propanol

243.17 AAH Allylamine 2-Propen-1-ylamine

93.5 AEAAH Aminoethylallylamine 1-(Allylamino)-2- aminoethane

173.08 BAEAAH Bis(2- aminoethyl)allylamine 1-[N-Allyl(2-aminoethyl)amino]-2- aminoethane

252.61 TAA Triallylamine N,N,N-triallylamine

137.22

In some embodiments, the preformed amine polymer is a crosslinked aminepolymer derived from a reaction of the resulting preformed polymers thatutilize monomers described in any of Formulae 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 2, 2a and2b or a linear polymer comprised of a repeat unit described by Formula 3with external crosslinkers or pre-existing polymer functionality thatcan serve as crosslinking sites. Formula 3 can be a repeat unit of apreformed copolymer or terpolymer where X₁₅ is either a random,alternating, or block copolymer. The repeating unit in Formula 3 canalso represent the repeating unit of a preformed polymer that isbranched, or hyperbranched, wherein the primary branch point can be fromany atom in the main chain of the polymer:

wherein

R₁₅, R₁₆ and R₁₇ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, substitutedhydrocarbyl, hydroxyl, amino, boronic acid or halo;

X₁₅ is

X₅ is hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, oxo (—O—), or amino and

z is a non-negative number.

In one embodiment, R₁₅, R₁₆ and R₁₇ are independently hydrogen, aryl, orheteroaryl, X₅ is hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, oxo or amino,and m and z are non-negative integers. In another embodiment, R₁₅, R₁₆and R₁₇ are independently aliphatic or heteroaliphatic, X₅ ishydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, oxo (—O—) or amino, and m and zare non-negative integers. In another embodiment, R₁₅, R₁₆ and R₁₇ areindependently unsaturated aliphatic or unsaturated heteroaliphatic, X₅is hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, oxo, or amino, and z is anon-negative integer. In another embodiment, R₁₅, R₁₆ and R₁₇ areindependently alkyl or heteroalkyl, X₅ is hydrocarbyl, substitutedhydrocarbyl, oxo, or amino, and z is a non-negative integer. In anotherembodiment, R₁₅, R₁₆ and R₁₇ are independently alkylamino, aminoalkyl,hydroxyl, amino, boronic acid, halo, haloalkyl, alkanol, or ethereal, X₅is hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, oxo, or amino, and z is anon-negative integer. In another embodiment, R₁₅, R₁₆ and R₁₇ areindependently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, hydroxyl,amino, boronic acid or halo, X₅ is oxo, amino, alkylamino, ethereal,alkanol, or haloalkyl, and z is a non-negative integer.

Exemplary crosslinking agents that may be used in radical polymerizationreactions include, but are not limited to, one or more multifunctionalcrosslinking agents such as: 1,4-bis(allylamino)butane,1,2-bis(allylamino)ethane,2-(allylamino)-1-[2-(allylamino)ethylamino]ethane,1,3-bis(allylamino)propane, 1,3-bis(allylamino)-2-propanol,triallylamine, diallylamine, divinylbenzene, 1,7-octadiene,1,6-heptadiene, 1,8-nonadiene, 1,9-decadiene, 1,4-divinyloxybutane,1,6-hexamethylenebisacrylamide, ethylene bisacrylamide,N,N′-bis(vinylsulfonylacetyl)ethylene diamine, 1,3-bis(vinylsulfonyl)2-propanol, vinylsulfone, N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide polyvinyl ether,polyallylether, divinylbenzene, 1,4-divinyloxybutane, and combinationsthereof.

Crosslinked polymers derived from the monomers and polymers in formulas1 through 3 may be synthesized either in solution or bulk or indispersed media. Examples of solvents that are suitable for thesynthesis of polymers of the present disclosure include, but are notlimited to water, low boiling alcohols (methanol, ethanol, propanol,butanol), dimethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide, heptane, chlorobenzene,toluene.

As previously noted, the product of the first polymerization step ispreferably in the form of beads whose diameter is controlled in the 5 to1000 microns range, preferably 10 to 500 microns and most preferred40-180 microns.

The product of the first polymerization step is preferably in the formof beads whose Swelling Ratio in water is between 2 and 10, morepreferably about 3 to about 8, and most preferably about 4 to about 6.

Additionally, if the crosslinked polymer beads resulting from the firstpolymerization step are protonated, this may reduce the amount ofnitrogen-nitrogen crosslinking in the second crosslinking step.Accordingly, in certain embodiments the preformed amine polymer is atleast partially deprotonated by treatment with a base, preferably astrong base such as a hydroxide base. For example, in one embodiment thebase may be NaOH, KOH, NH₄OH, NaHCO₃, Na₂CO₃, K₂CO₃, LiOH, Li₂CO₃, CsOHor other metal hydroxides. If the charges are removed from the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer bead by deprotonation, the bead will tend tocollapse and the crosslinking agent used in the second step may not beable to access binding sites on the polymer unless the bead is preventedfrom collapsing. One means of preventing the crosslinked polymer beadfrom collapsing is the use of a swelling agent such as water to swellthe bead, thereby allowing the second-step crosslinker to access bindingsites.

The preformed polymer may be crosslinked to form the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer using any of a range of crosslinking compoundscontaining at least two amine-reactive functional groups. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinker is a compound containing at least twoamine-reactive groups selected from the group consisting of halides,epoxides, phosgene, anhydrides, carbamates, carbonates, isocyanates,thioisocyanates, esters, activated esters, carboxylic acids andderivatives thereof, sulfonates and derivatives thereof, acyl halides,aziridines, α,β-unsaturated carbonyls, ketones, aldehydes, andpentafluoroaryl groups. The crosslinker may be, for example, any of thecrosslinkers disclosed herein, including a crosslinker selected fromTable B. By way of further example, in one such embodiment thecrosslinker is a dihalide such as a dichloroalkane.

As noted above, in certain embodiments a swelling agent for thepreformed amine polymer may be included in the reaction mixture for thesecond polymerization step along with the crosslinking agent. Ingeneral, the swelling agent and the crosslinking agent may be miscibleor immiscible and the swelling agent may be any composition orcombination of compositions that have the capacity to swell thepreformed amine polymer. Exemplary swelling agents include polarsolvents such as water, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol,n-butanol, formic acid, acetic acid, acetonitrile, dimethylformamide,dimethylsulfoxide, nitromethane, propylene carbonate, or a combinationthereof. Additionally, the amount of swelling agent included in thereaction mixture will typically be less than absorption capacity of thepreformed amine polymer for the swelling agent. For example, it isgenerally preferred that the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformedpolymer in the reaction mixture be less than 4:1. By way of furtherexample, in some embodiments the weight ratio of swelling agent topreformed polymer in the reaction mixture will be less than 3:1. By wayof further example, in some embodiments the weight ratio of swellingagent to preformed polymer in the reaction mixture will be less than2:1. By way of further example, in some embodiments the weight ratio ofswelling agent to preformed polymer in the reaction mixture will be lessthan 1:1. By way of further example, in some embodiments the weightratio of swelling agent to preformed polymer in the reaction mixturewill be less than 0.5:1. By way of further example, in some embodimentsthe weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed polymer in the reactionmixture will be less than 0.4:1. By way of further example, in someembodiments the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed polymer inthe reaction mixture will be less than 0.3:1. In general, however, theweight ratio of swelling agent to preformed polymer in the reactionmixture will typically be at least 0.05:1, respectively.

When the swelling agent comprises water, the weight ratio of water topreformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture will typically be lessthan about 4:1 (water to polymer). For example, in one such embodimentthe reaction mixture comprises water as a swelling agent and the weightratio of water to preformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture willtypically be less than about 3.5:1. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the reaction mixture comprises water as a swelling agentand the weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer in the reactionmixture will typically be less than about 3:1. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment the reaction mixture comprises water asa swelling agent and the weight ratio of water to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture will typically be less than about 2.5:1.By way of further example, in one such embodiment the reaction mixturecomprises water as a swelling agent and the weight ratio of water topreformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture will typically be lessthan about 2:1. By way of further example, in one such embodiment thereaction mixture comprises water as a swelling agent and the weightratio of water to preformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture willtypically be less than about 1.5:1. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the reaction mixture comprises water as a swelling agentand the weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer in the reactionmixture will typically be less than about 1:1. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment the reaction mixture comprises water asa swelling agent and the weight ratio of water to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture will typically be less than about0.75:1. By way of further example, in one such embodiment the reactionmixture comprises water as a swelling agent and the weight ratio ofwater to preformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture will typicallybe less than about 0.5:1. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the reaction mixture comprises water as a swelling agent andthe weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer in the reactionmixture will typically be less than about 0.25:1. In general, however,when water is employed as a swelling agent the weight ratio of water topreformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture will typically be atleast about 0.15:1 (water to polymer) but less than the water absorptioncapacity of the preformed amine polymer. By way of further example, inone embodiment the weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture will typically be at least about 0.2:1 but lessthan the water absorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer. Byway of further example, in one embodiment the weight ratio of water topreformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture will typically be atleast about 0.25:1 but less than the water absorption capacity of thepreformed amine polymer. By way of further example, in one embodimentthe weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer in the reactionmixture will typically be at least about 0.5:1 but less than the waterabsorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer. By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment the weight ratio of water to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture will typically be at least about 0.75:1but less than the water absorption capacity of the preformed aminepolymer. By way of further example, in one embodiment the weight ratioof water to preformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture willtypically be at least about 1:1 but less than the water absorptioncapacity of the preformed amine polymer. By way of further example, inone embodiment the weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture will typically be at least about 1.5:1 but lessthan the water absorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer. Byway of further example, in one embodiment the weight ratio of water topreformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture will typically be atleast about 2:1 but less than the water absorption capacity of thepreformed amine polymer. By way of further example, in one embodimentthe weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer in the reactionmixture will typically be at least about 2.5:1 but less than the waterabsorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer. By way of furtherexample, in one embodiment the weight ratio of water to preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture will typically be at least about 3:1 butless than the water absorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer.By way of further example, in one embodiment the weight ratio of waterto preformed amine polymer in the reaction mixture will typically be atleast about 3.5:1 but less than the water absorption capacity of thepreformed amine polymer. Thus, in certain embodiments the weight ratioof water to preformed amine polymer will be in the range of about 0.15:1to about 4:1. By way of further example, in certain embodiments theweight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer will be in the range ofabout 0.2:1 to about 3.5:1. By way of further example, in certainembodiments the weight ratio of water to preformed amine polymer will bein the range of about 0.2:1 to about 3:1.

In each of the foregoing embodiments, the reaction mixture may contain awide range of amounts of crosslinking agents. For example, in oneembodiment the crosslinker may be used in large excess relative to theamount of preformed amine polymer in the reaction mixtures. Stateddifferently, in such embodiments the crosslinking agent is acrosslinking solvent, i.e., it is both a solvent for the reactionmixture and a crosslinking agent for the preformed amine polymer. Insuch embodiments, other solvents may optionally be included in thereaction mixture but are not required. Alternatively, the preformedamine polymer, swelling agent and crosslinker may be dispersed in asolvent that is miscible with the crosslinker and immiscible with theswelling agent. For example, in some embodiments the swelling agent maybe a polar solvent; in some such embodiments, for example, the swellingagent may comprise water, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol,formic acid, acetic acid, acetonitrile, dimethylformamide,dimethylsulfoxide, nitromethane, or a combination thereof. By way offurther example, when the swelling agent comprises a polar solvent, thesolvent system for the reaction mixture will typically comprise anon-polar solvent such as pentane, cyclopentane, hexane, cyclohexane,benzene, toluene, 1,4-dioxane, chloroform, diethyl ether,dichloromethane, dichloroethane, dichloropropane, dichlorobutane, or acombination thereof. In certain embodiments, the crosslinker and thesolvent may be the same; i.e., the solvent is a crosslinking solventsuch as 1,2-dichloroethane, 1,3-dichloropropane, 1,4-dichlorobutane or acombination thereof.

In those embodiments in which the reaction mixture comprises a swellingagent, it is sometimes preferred to combine the preformed amine polymerwith the solvent (sometimes alternatively referred to as a dispersant)before the preformed amine polymer is combined with the swelling agentin the reaction mixture. In certain embodiments, the resultingcrosslinked polymer tends to be less aggregated when the preformed aminepolymer is combined with a solvent (dispersant) that is immiscible withthe swelling agent before the preformed amine polymer is combined withthe swelling agent. Thus, in certain embodiments less than 25% of theparticles in a representative sample of a population of postpolymerization crosslinked amine particles are aggregated intoagglomerates. For example, in some embodiments less than 20% of theparticles in a representative sample of a population of postpolymerization crosslinked amine particles are aggregated intoagglomerates. By way of further example, in some embodiments less than15% of the particles in a representative sample of a population of postpolymerization crosslinked amine particles are aggregated intoagglomerates. By way of further example, in some embodiments less than10% of the particles in a representative sample of a population of postpolymerization crosslinked amine particles are aggregated intoagglomerates. By way of further example, in some embodiments less than5% of the particles in a representative sample of a population of postpolymerization crosslinked amine particles are aggregated intoagglomerates. By way of further example, in some embodiments less than1% of the particles in a representative sample of a population of postpolymerization crosslinked amine particles are aggregated intoagglomerates. Aggregation can be evaluated using microscopy or othermeans of measuring particle size distribution. Lack of aggregation canbe defined as generally separated, free-flowing beads lackingmacroscopic and/or microscopic clumps. Particle size distribution (asdefined elsewhere) can indicate that aggregation has occurred, forexample if the average size (d(50)) and/or d(90) of thepost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer increases after thecrosslinking step relative to the preformed amine polymer breads aspreviously described.

In one embodiment, a preformed amine polymer is formed in a first stepand the preformed amine polymer is crosslinked in a second step to forthe post-polymerization crosslinked polymer without isolating thepreformed amine polymer between the first and second steps (sometimesreferred to as a “one-pot synthesis”). For example, in one suchembodiment a preformed amine polymer is formed in a first reactionmixture (as previously described herein) and, without isolating thepreformed amine polymer formed in the first reaction mixture, thepreformed amine polymer is then crosslinked using any of thecrosslinkers disclosed herein (including, e.g., a crosslinker selectedfrom Table B). By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepreformed polymer may be dispersed in any of the non-polar solventsdisclosed herein (including for example, a crosslinking solvent) to forma reaction mixture and a swelling agent is added to the reactionmixture. In one such exemplary embodiment, the crosslinker is selectedfrom Table B, the solvent is a crosslinking water-immiscible solventsuch as 1,2-dichloroethane (“DCE”) or 1,3-dichloropropane (“DCP”), andthe swelling agent comprises water. In each of the foregoingembodiments, the preformed polymer may be an amine-containing polymercontaining a residue of a monomer described in any of Formulae 1, 1a,1b, 1c, 2, 2a and 2b or a linear polymer comprised of a repeat unitdescribed by Formula 3; for example, in each of the foregoingembodiments, the preformed polymer may contain the residue of two ormore small molecule amines and crosslinkers disclosed in Table C.

In one exemplary embodiment, a preformed polyamine polymer iscrosslinked under, for example suspension conditions to generate aparticle of targeted particle size and morphology. The crosslinker canbe either water miscible or water miscible. When a water immisciblecrosslinker (e.g., DCE or DCP) is used as the dispersant, high chloridebinding selectivities are achieved, as demonstrated, for example, in SIBand/or SOB.

In one embodiment an amine polymer can be formed and then furthercrosslinked in the same reaction flask and in one reaction series. Acrosslinked amine polymer can be prepared under, for example, suspensionconditions to generate a particle of targeted particle size andmorphology. In the same reaction flask, and without isolation, the watercontent in the beads can be lowered by Dean Stark methods or othersimilar evaporative techniques. The water is adjusted to the targetedamount such that a second crosslinking reaction can be conducted toproduce a final polymer with the desired properties and characteristics.

In one embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer is treated to reducethe concentration of any residual amine-reactive groups (e.g.,amine-reactive functional groups) introduced to the crosslinked polymerby a crosslinker. For example, in one such embodiment the crosslinkedpolymer (e.g., a post-polymerization crosslinked polymer as previouslydescribed) is treated with a quenching agent such as a base, washed,heated, or otherwise treated to remove or quench the amine-reactivegroups. For example, in one embodiment the crosslinked polymer istreated with ammonium hydroxide. The ammonium hydroxide treatment canoccur immediately after the reaction, during the washing steps, or afterthe polymer has been washed and dried, in which case the polymer can beprocessed through another series of washing steps. In anotherembodiment, the crosslinked polymer is heated in a conventional or in avacuum oven at a temperature above room temperature for a period oftime, for example 60° C. for greater than 36 hours. The oven incubationmay occur under an inert atmosphere (e.g., nitrogen or argon) to reducethe possibility of oxidation.

In one embodiment, a preformed amine polymer characterized by a firstselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB is crosslinked in apost-polymerization crosslinking reaction to provide a crosslinkedpolymer (i.e., the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer) having asecond (different) selectivity for chloride relative to citrate,phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB. In one suchembodiment, the preformed amine polymer is the reaction product of asubstitution polymerization of polyfunctional reagents at least one ofwhich comprises amine moieties. In another such embodiment, thepreformed polymer is the reaction product of a radical polymerization ofa monomer comprising at least one amine moiety or nitrogen containingmoiety. In a second crosslinking step (which may optionally be carriedout after the preformed polymer is isolated or as a second step in aone-pot reaction), the preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with apolyfunctional crosslinker, optionally containing amine moieties.

In one exemplary embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymerhas an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate in SIB relative to the preformed amine polymer.For example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinkedpolymer has an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreasedbinding capacity for phosphate in SIB relative to the preformed polymer.By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride inSIB that is at least 10% greater than the binding capacity of thepreformed polymer for chloride in SIB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has acapacity for chloride in SIB that is at least 25% greater than thebinding capacity of the preformed polymer for chloride in SIB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride in SIB that is at least50% greater than the binding capacity of the preformed polymer forchloride in SIB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride inSIB that is at least 75% greater than the binding capacity of thepreformed polymer for chloride in SIB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has acapacity for chloride in SIB that is at least 100% greater than thebinding capacity of the preformed polymer for chloride in SIB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride in SIB that is at least125% greater than the binding capacity of the preformed polymer forchloride in SIB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride inSIB that is at least 150% greater than the binding capacity of thepreformed polymer for chloride in SIB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has acapacity for chloride in SIB that is at least 200% greater than thebinding capacity of the preformed polymer for chloride in SIB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer has a capacity for phosphate in SIB that is at least10% less than the binding capacity of the preformed polymer forphosphate in SIB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for phosphate inSIB that is at least 20% less than the binding capacity of the preformedpolymer for phosphate in SIB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate in SIB that is at least 30% less than the binding capacityof the preformed polymer for phosphate in SIB. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinkedpolymer has a capacity for phosphate in SIB that is at least 40% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate in SIB.By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for phosphate inSIB that is at least 50% less than the binding capacity of the preformedpolymer for phosphate in SIB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate in SIB that is at least 60% less than the binding capacityof the preformed polymer for phosphate in SIB. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinkedpolymer has a capacity for phosphate in SIB that is at least 70% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate in SIB.By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for phosphate inSIB that is at least 80% less than the binding capacity of the preformedpolymer for phosphate in SIB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate in SIB that is at least 90% less than the binding capacityof the preformed polymer for phosphate in SIB. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinkedpolymer has a capacity for phosphate in SIB that is at least 95% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate in SIB.By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has (i) an increased bindingcapacity for chloride (the percentage increase being at least 10%, 25%,50%, 75%, 100%, 125%, 150%, 175%, or even at least 200%) and a decreasedbinding capacity for phosphate in SIB (the percentage decrease being atleast 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or even at least 95%)relative to the preformed amine polymer and (ii) a decreased bindingcapacity for chloride in SGF relative to the preformed amine polymer.

In one exemplary embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymerhas an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate, citrate or taurocholate in SOB relative to thepreformed amine polymer. For example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has an increased bindingcapacity for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate inSOB relative to the preformed polymer. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has anincreased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased binding capacityfor citrate in SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity for chloride and adecreased binding capacity for taurocholate in SOB relative to thepreformed amine polymer. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has an increasedbinding capacity for chloride and a decreased binding capacity forphosphate, citrate and taurocholate, combined, in SOB relative to thepreformed amine polymer.

By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride inSOB that is at least 10% greater than the binding capacity of thepreformed polymer for chloride in SOB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has acapacity for chloride in SOB that is at least 25% greater than thebinding capacity of the preformed polymer for chloride in SOB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride in SOB that is at least50% greater than the binding capacity of the preformed polymer forchloride in SOB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride inSOB that is at least 75% greater than the binding capacity of thepreformed polymer for chloride in SOB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has acapacity for chloride in SOB that is at least 100% greater than thebinding capacity of the preformed polymer for chloride in SOB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride in SOB that is at least125% greater than the binding capacity of the preformed polymer forchloride in SOB. By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for chloride inSOB that is at least 150% greater than the binding capacity of thepreformed polymer for chloride in SOB. By way of further example, in onesuch embodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has acapacity for chloride in SOB that is at least 200% greater than thebinding capacity of the preformed polymer for chloride in SOB. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the post-polymerizationcrosslinked polymer has a capacity for phosphate, citrate andtaurocholate in SOB that is at least 10% less than the binding capacityof the preformed polymer for phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB.By way of further example, in one such embodiment thepost-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 20% less than thebinding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate, citrate andtaurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one such embodimentthe post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacity forphosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 30% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 40% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 50% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 60% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 70% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 80% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 90% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has a capacityfor phosphate, citrate and taurocholate in SOB that is at least 95% lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for phosphate,citrate and taurocholate in SOB. By way of further example, in one suchembodiment the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has (i) anincreased binding capacity for chloride (the percentage increase beingat least 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%, 125%, 150%, 175%, or even at least200%) and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate, citrate andtaurocholate in SOB (the percentage decrease being at least 10%, 20%,30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or even at least 95%) relative to thepreformed amine polymer and (ii) a decreased binding capacity in SGFrelative to the preformed amine polymer.

The starting molecules described in formulas 1 through 3 may becopolymerized with one or more other monomers of the invention,oligomers or other polymerizable groups. Such copolymer architecturescan include, but are not limited to, block or block-like polymers, graftcopolymers, and random copolymers. Incorporation of monomers describedby formulas 1 through 3 can range from 1% to 99%. In some embodiments,the incorporation of comonomer is between 20% and 80%.

Non-limiting examples of comonomers which may be used alone or incombination include: styrene, allylamine hydrochloride, substitutedallylamine hydrochloride, substituted styrene, alkyl acrylate,substituted alkyl acrylate, alkyl methacrylate, substituted alkylmethacrylate, acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile, acrylamide,methacrylamide, N-alkylacrylamide, N-alkylmethacrylamide,N,N-dialkylacrylamide, N,N-dialkylmethacrylamide, isoprene, butadiene,ethylene, vinyl acetate, N-vinyl amide, maleic acid derivatives, vinylether, allyl, methallyl monomers and combinations thereof.Functionalized versions of these monomers may also be used. Additionalspecific monomers or comonomers that may be used in this inventioninclude, but are not limited to, 2-propen-1-ylamine,1-(allylamino)-2-aminoethane,1-[N-allyl(2-aminoethyl)amino]-2-aminoethane, methyl methacrylate, ethylmethacrylate, propyl methacrylate (all isomers), butyl methacrylate (allisomers), 2-ethylhexyl methacrylate, isobornyl methacrylate, methacrylicacid, benzyl methacrylate, phenyl methacrylate, methacrylonitrile,amethylstyrene, methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, propyl acrylate (allisomers), butyl acrylate (all isomers), 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, isobornylacrylate, acrylic acid, benzyl acrylate, phenyl acrylate, acrylonitrile,styrene, glycidyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate,hydroxypropyl methacrylate (all isomers), hydroxybutyl methacrylate (allisomers), N,N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, N,N-diethylaminoethylmethacrylate, triethyleneglycol methacrylate, itaconic anhydride,itaconic acid, glycidyl acrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, hydroxypropylacrylate (all isomers), hydroxybutyl acrylate (all isomers),N,N-dimethylaminoethyl acrylate, N,N-diethylaminoethyl acrylate,triethyleneglycol acrylate, methacrylamide, N-methylacrylamide,N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N-tert-butylmethacrylamide,N—N-butylmethacrylamide, N-methylolmethacrylamide,N-ethylolmethacrylamide, N-tert-butylacryl amide, N-Nbutylacrylamide,N-methylolacrylamide, N-ethylolacrylamide, 4-acryloylmorpholine, vinylbenzoic acid (all isomers), diethylaminostyrene (all isomers),a-methylvinyl benzoic acid (all isomers), diethylamino a-methylstyrene(all isomers), p-vinylbenzene sulfonic acid, p-vinylbenzene sulfonicsodium salt, trimethoxysilylpropyl methacrylate, triethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate, tributoxysilylpropyl methacrylate,dimethoxymethylsilylpropyl methacrylate, diethoxymethylsilylpropylmethacrylate, dibutoxymethylsilylpropyl methacrylate,diisopropoxymethylsilylpropyl methacrylate, dimethoxysilylpropylmethacrylate, diethoxysilylpropyl methacrylate, dibutoxysilylpropylmethacrylate, diisopropoxysilylpropyl methacrylate,trimethoxysilylpropyl acrylate, triethoxysilylpropyl acrylate,tributoxysilylpropyl acrylate, dimethoxymethylsilylpropyl acrylate,diethoxymethylsilylpropyl acrylate, dibutoxymethylsilylpropyl acrylate,diisopropoxymethylsilylpropyl acrylate, dimethoxysilylpropyl acrylate,diethoxysilylpropyl acrylate, dibutoxysilylpropyl acrylate,diisopropoxysilylpropyl acrylate, maleic anhydride, N-phenylmaleimide,N-butylmaleimide, N-vinylformamide, N-vinyl acetamide, allylamine,methallylamine, allylalcohol, methyl-vinylether, ethylvinylether,butylvinyltether, butadiene, isoprene, chloroprene, ethylene, vinylacetate, and combinations thereof.

Additional modification to the preformed crosslinked polymer can beachieved through the addition of modifiers, including but not limited toamine monomers, additional crosslinkers, and polymers. Modification canbe accomplished through covalent or non-covalent methods. Thesemodifications can be evenly or unevenly dispersed throughout thepreformed polymer material, including modifications biased to thesurface of the preformed crosslinked polymer. Furthermore, modificationscan be made to change the physical properties of the preformedcrosslinked polymer, including but not limited to reactions that occurwith remaining reactive groups such as haloalkyl groups and allyl groupsin the preformed polymer. Reactions and modifications to the preformedcrosslinked polymer can include but are not limited to acid-basereactions, nucleophilic substitution reactions, Michael reactions,non-covalent electrostatic interactions, hydrophobic interactions,physical interactions (crosslinking) and radical reactions.

In one embodiment, the post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer isa crosslinked amine polymer comprising a structure corresponding toFormula 4:

wherein each R is independently hydrogen or an ethylene crosslinkbetween two nitrogen atoms of the crosslinked amine polymer

and a, b, c, and m are integers. Typically, m is a large integerindicating an extended polymer network. In one such embodiment, a ratioof the sum of a and b to c (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range of about 1:1 to5:1. For example, in one such embodiment a ratio of the sum of a and bto c (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range of about 1.5:1 to 4:1. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment a ratio of the sum of a and b toc (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range of about 1.75:1 to 3:1. For example, inone such embodiment a ratio of the sum of a and b is 57, c is 24 and mis large integer indicating an extended polymer network. In each of theforegoing embodiments R may be to c (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range ofabout 2:1 to 2.5:1. As noted in each of the foregoing embodiments, eachR may independently be hydrogen or an ethylene crosslink between twonitrogen atoms. Typically, however, 50-95% of the R substituents will behydrogen and 5-50% will be an ethylene crosslink

For example, in one such embodiment, 55-90% of the R substituents arehydrogen and 10-45% are an ethylene crosslink

By way of further example, in one such embodiment, 60-90% of the Rsubstituents are hydrogen and 10-40% are an ethylene crosslink. By wayof further example, in one such embodiment, 65-90% of the R substituentsare hydrogen and 10-35% are an ethylene crosslink.

By way of further example, in one such embodiment, 70-90% of the Rsubstituents are hydrogen and 10-30% are an ethylene crosslink. By wayof further example, in one such embodiment, 75-85% of the R substituentsare hydrogen and 15-25% are an ethylene crosslink. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment, 80-85% of the R substituents arehydrogen and 15-20% are an ethylene crosslink. By way of furtherexample, in one such embodiment, about 81% of the R substituents arehydrogen and about 19% are an ethylene crosslink.

As described in greater detail in the Examples, polymers in whichcrosslinking and/or entanglement were increased were found to have lowerswelling than those with lower crosslinking and/or entanglement, yetalso had a binding capacity for target ion (e.g., chloride) that was asgreat as or greater than the lower crosslinking and/or entanglementpolymers while binding of interfering ions such as phosphate weresignificantly reduced. The selectivity effect was introduced in twodifferent manners: 1) Overall capacity was sacrificed for chloridespecificity. Crosslinkers that don't include chloride binding sites(e.g. epichlorohydrin) allow for increased crosslinking while overallcapacity is decreased proportional to the amount of crosslinkerincorporated into the polymer. 2) Overall capacity is preserved forchloride specificity: Crosslinkers that include chloride binding sites(e.g. diallylamines) allow for increased crosslinking while overallcapacity is staying the same or is reduced by only a small amount.

The polymers described herein exhibit ion binding properties, generallyproton binding to form the positive charge followed by anion-binding. Inpreferred embodiments, the polymers exhibit chloride binding properties.Ion (e.g., chloride) binding capacity is a measure of the amount of aparticular ion an ion binder can bind in a given solution. For example,binding capacities of ion-binding polymers can be measured in vitro,e.g., in water or in saline solution or in solutions/matrices containingcations and anions representative of gastrointestinal lumen conditions,or in vivo, e.g., from ion (e.g., bicarbonate or citrate) urinaryexcretion, or ex vivo, for example using aspirate liquids, e.g.,chime/gastrointestinal lumen contents obtained from lab animals,patients or volunteers. Measurements can be made in a solutioncontaining only the target ion, or at least no other competing solutesthat compete with target ions for binding to the polymer. In thesecases, a non-interfering buffer would be used (e.g. a solution ofhydrochloric acid, with or without additional sodium chloride).Alternatively, measurements can be made in an interfering buffer thatcontains other competing solutes, e.g., other ions or metabolites thatcompete with target ions for binding to the resin.

In some embodiments the polymer binds hydrochloric acid. For in vivouse, e.g., in treating metabolic acidosis, it is desirable that thepolymer have a high proton and chloride binding capacity. In vitromeasurements of binding capacity do not necessarily translate into invivo binding capacities. Hence, it is useful to define binding capacityin terms of both in vitro and in vivo capacity.

The in vitro chloride binding capacity of the polymers of the inventionin HCl can be greater than about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15mmol/g. In some embodiments, the in vitro chloride binding capacity ofthe polymers of the invention for target ion is greater than about 5.0mmol/g, preferably greater than about 7.0 mmol/g, even more preferablygreater than about 9.0 mmol/g, and yet even more preferably greater thanabout 10.0 mmol/g. In some embodiments, the chloride binding capacitycan range from about 5.0 mmol/g to about 25 mmol/g, preferably fromabout 7.5 mmol/g to about 20 mmol/g, and even more preferably from about10 mmol/g to about 15 mmol/g. Several techniques are known in the art todetermine the chloride binding capacity.

The in vivo maximum binding capacity (i.e. the maximum amount of [protonand] chloride bound in conditions likely to be encountered in the GItract of a human) can be evaluated by 12-16 h chloride binding in theSimulated Gastric Fluid assay (“SGF”) and is a structural measure forhow well the monomers and crosslinkers were incorporated. The SGF valuesrepresent an experimental confirmation of the theoretical maximumbinding capacity of the polymers and fall in the same range as thecalculated capacity based on the stoichiometry of the startingmaterials.

In order to counterbalance the proton binding, chloride is the anion ofchoice to be bound as its removal has no negative impact on serumbicarbonate. Anions other than chloride, bound to neutralize the protonpositive charge, include phosphate, short chain fatty acids, long chainfatty acids, bile acids or other organic or inorganic anions. Binding ofthese anions, other than chloride, influences overall bicarbonate storesin the intracellular and extracellular compartments.

The selectivity of the polymer for binding chloride can be evaluated invitro using conditions that mimic various conditions, anions and anionconcentrations encountered in the GI lumen. The chloride binding can becompared versus phosphate alone (e.g. SIB [Simulated Intestinal Buffer];or versus a range of anions found in the GI tract (e.g., SOB).

In some embodiments, the chloride binding in the SIB assay after onehours exposure of the polymer to the test buffer at 37° C. is greaterthan about 2.0 mmol per gram of polymer, preferably greater than about2.5 mmol/g of polymer, more preferably greater than about 3.0 mmol/g ofpolymer, even more preferably greater than about 3.5 mmol/g of polymerand most preferably greater than about 4.0 mmol/g of polymer.

In some embodiments, the chloride binding in the SOB assay after twohours exposure of the polymer to the test buffer at 37° C. is greaterthan about 1.0 mmol per gram of polymer, preferably greater than about2.0 mmol/g of polymer, more preferably greater than about 3.0 mmol/g ofpolymer, even more preferably greater than about 3.5 mmol/g of polymerand most preferably greater than about 4.0 mmol/g of polymer.

In some embodiments, the chloride binding in this SOB assay aftertwenty-four hours exposure of the polymer to the test buffer at 37° C.is greater than about 0.5 mmol per gram of polymer, preferably greaterthan about 1 mmol/g of polymer, more preferably greater than about 1.5mmol/g of polymer, even more preferably greater than about 2.0 mmol/gof, even more preferably greater than about 2.5 mmol/g of polymer andmost preferably greater than about 3.0 mmol/g of polymer. The chloridebinding in SOB after 24 hours exposure at 37° C. is one measure of theability of a polymer to retain chloride as it passes through the GItract.

Another way of measuring (proton and) chloride retention is to firstexpose the polymer to SGF, to isolate the polymer, then expose thepolymer to SOB, to isolate the polymer again and then to expose thepolymer to conditions that are typical of the colon lumen, for exampleusing the “GI Compartment Transit Assay” (GICTA) buffer. In someembodiments, the amount of chloride remaining bound to the polymer afterone hour exposure to SGF, then two hours exposure to SOB at 37° C. andthen 48 hours exposure to GICTA at 37° C. is greater than about 0.5 mmolper gram of polymer, preferably greater than about 0.5 mmol/g ofpolymer, more preferably greater than about 1.0 mmol/g of polymer, evenmore preferably greater than about 2.0 mmol/g of polymer and mostpreferably greater than about 3.0 mmol/g of polymer. In one embodiment,the polymer has a retained chloride content of at least 30% of thechloride that was initially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay(“GICTA”) (i.e., bound during the SGF binding step). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloridecontent of at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, atleast 70%, at least 80% or even at least 90% of the chloride that wasinitially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay. In one embodiment,the polymer has a retained chloride content of at least 0.5, at least 1,at least 1.5, at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, atleast 4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/g of polymer ina GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”). In one embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloride content of at least30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least80% or even at least 90% of the chloride that was initially bound in aGI Compartment Transit Assay and a retained chloride content of at least0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, atleast 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/gof polymer in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”).

In some embodiments, the in vivo binding performance of polymers of thepresent disclosure can be evaluated by measuring the change in urineacid levels after administration to an animal, including a human, withnormal renal function. The removal of additional HCl (or HCl equivalent)from the body by the action of the administered polymer, given enoughtime to reach metabolic equilibrium, is reflected in changes in urinebicarbonate, titratable acid, citrate or other indicators of urinaryacid excretion.

In order to bind protons, the amine constituents of the polymers can beprimary, secondary or tertiary amines, but not quaternary amines.Quaternary amines remain substantially charged at all physiologicalconditions and therefore do not bind a proton before an anion is bound.The percentage of quaternary amines can be measured in a number of ways,including titration and back titration approaches. Another simple butaccurate method is to compare anion (e.g. chloride) binding at low andhigh pH. While chloride binding at low pH (e.g. the SGF bufferconditions; pH 1.2) does not distinguish quaternary amines from otheramines, chloride binding assay at high pH (e.g. QAA buffer conditions;pH 11.5) does. At this high pH, primary, secondary and tertiary aminesare not substantially protonated and do not contribute to chloridebinding. Therefore any binding observed under these conditions can beattributed to the presence of permanently charged quaternary amines. Acomparison of chloride binding at low pH (e.g. SGF conditions) versushigh pH (e.g. QAA conditions) is a measure of the degree ofquaternization and by extension is a measure of the amount of protonbound along with the chloride. The polymers of the current disclosurecontain no more than 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, most preferably 5% quaternaryamines.

The Swelling Ratio of the polymers of the present disclosure representan experimental confirmation of the degree of crosslinking and byextension the relative pore sizes of the polymers and accessibility toanions larger than (or with a hydration ratio larger than) chloride. Insome embodiments the swelling is measured in deionized water and isexpressed in terms of grams of water per gram of dry polymer. Thepolymers of the current disclosure have a Swelling Ratio in deionizedwater of ≤5 g/g, ≤4 g/g, ≤3 g/g, ≤2 g/g or ≤1 g/g.

The ability of polymer to retain chloride (and not release it, allowingexchange with other anions) as it passes through different conditionsexperienced in the GI lumen is an important characteristic that islikely to be a predictor of relative in vivo efficacy. The GICompartment transit assay (GICTA) can be used to evaluate chlorideretention. A SGF and then a SOB (Simulated Intestinal Organic/InorganicBuffer) screen are first performed to allow chloride and other anions tobind to the polymers, the polymers are isolated and exposed toconditions mimicking the colon lumen (e.g. GICTA retention assay matrix)for 40 hours. The polymers are again isolated and the anions remainingbound to the polymer are eluted in sodium hydroxide and measured. Thepolymers of the current disclosure retain more than 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%,70%, 80% or most preferably more than 90% of chloride bound in SGF afterbeing submitted to the chloride retention assay as described.

Using heterogeneous polymerization processes, polymer particles areobtained as spherical beads, whose diameter is controlled in the 5 to1000 microns range, preferably 10 to 500 microns and most preferred40-180 microns.

In general, a pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosurecomprises a proton-binding, crosslinked amine polymer described herein.Preferably, the pharmaceutical composition comprising the crosslinkedamine polymer is formulated for oral administration. The form of thepharmaceutical in which the polymer is administered includes powders,tablets, pills, lozenges, sachets, cachets, elixirs, suspensions,syrups, soft or hard gelatin capsules, and the like. In one embodiment,the pharmaceutical composition comprises only the crosslinked aminepolymer. Alternatively, the pharmaceutical composition may comprise acarrier, a diluent, or excipient in addition to the crosslinked aminepolymer. Examples of carriers, excipients, and diluents that may be usedin these formulations as well as others, include foods, drinks, lactose,dextrose, sucrose, sorbitol, mannitol, starches, gum acacia, alginates,tragacanth, gelatin, calcium silicate, microcrystalline cellulose,polyvinylpyrrolidone, cellulose, methyl cellulose,methylhydroxybenzoates, propylhydroxybenzoates, propylhydroxybenzoates,and talc. Pharmaceutical excipients useful in the pharmaceuticalcompositions further include a binder, such as microcrystallinecellulose, colloidal silica and combinations thereof (Prosolv 90),carbopol, providone and xanthan gum; a flavoring agent, such as sucrose,mannitol, xylitol, maltodextrin, fructose, or sorbitol; a lubricant,such as magnesium stearate, stearic acid, sodium stearyl fumarate andvegetable based fatty acids; and, optionally, a disintegrant, such ascroscarmellose sodium, gellan gum, low-substituted hydroxypropyl etherof cellulose, sodium starch glycolate. Other additives may includeplasticizers, pigments, talc, and the like. Such additives and othersuitable ingredients are well-known in the art; see, e.g., Gennaro A R(ed), Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, 20th Edition.

In one embodiment, pharmaceutical compositions comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer of the present disclosure contain relatively low amountsof sodium. For example, in one such embodiment the pharmaceuticalcomposition comprises less than 1 g of sodium per dose. By way offurther example, in one such embodiment the pharmaceutical compositioncomprises less than 0.5 g sodium per dose. By way of further example, inone such embodiment the pharmaceutical composition comprises less than0.1 g sodium per dose. By way of further example, in one such embodimentthe pharmaceutical composition is sodium-free.

In one embodiment, the daily dose of the new chronic metabolic acidosistreatment is compliance enhancing (approximately 5 g or less per day)and achieves a clinically significant and sustained increase of serumbicarbonate of approximately 3 mEq/L at these daily doses. Thenon-absorbed nature of the polymer and the lack of sodium load and/orintroduction of other deleterious ions for such an oral drug enable forthe first time a safe, chronic treatment of metabolic acidosis withoutworsening blood pressure/hypertension and/or without causing increasedfluid retention and fluid overload. Another benefit is further slowingof the progression of kidney disease and time to onset of lifelong renalreplacement therapy (End Stage Renal Disease “ESRD” including 3 times aweek dialysis) or need for kidney transplants. Both are associated withsignificant mortality, low quality of life and significant burden tohealthcare systems around the world. In the United States alone,approximately 20% of the 400,000 ESRD patients die and 100,000 newpatients start dialysis every year.

In one embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition comprises asodium-free, non-absorbed, cross-linked, amine polymer for treatment ofmetabolic acidosis that increases serum bicarbonate and normalizes bloodpH in a mammal by binding HCl. One preferred embodiment includes thepolymer binding H⁺ in the stomach/upper GI tract followed by binding Cl⁻in sufficient amounts to cause a clinically meaningful increase of serumbicarbonate of at least 1.6 mEq/L, more preferred of at least 2 mEq/Land most preferred of equal or greater 3 mEq/L. The amount of HClbinding is determined by the polymer's capacity (targeted range of HClbinding capacity of 5-20 mEq of HCl per 1 g of polymer) and selectivity.In the stomach, free amine becomes protonated by binding H⁺. Thepositive charge formed in situ on the polymer is then available to bindCl⁻; by controlling access of binding sites through crosslinking (sizeexclusion, mesh size) and chemical moieties (to repel larger, organicions (such as acetate, propionate and butyrate or other short chainfatty acids commonly present in the colon), phosphate, bile and fattyacids through tailored hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity), anions other thanchloride are bound to a lesser degree if at all. By tailoring the beadcrosslinking and the chemical nature of the amine binding sites,chloride can be bound tightly to ensure that it is not released in thelower GI tract. HCl is removed from the body through regular bowlmovement/feces, resulting in net HCl binding. In another embodiment, thepolymer comes pre-formed with some quaternized/protonated amine groupsand chloride binding is achieved through ion exchange with citrate orcarbonate where up to 90% of cationic binding sites on the polymer comepre-loaded with citrate and/or carbonate as the counter-ion.

In one embodiment, a key feature of the sodium-free, non-absorbed, aminepolymer for treatment of metabolic acidosis that increases serumbicarbonate and normalizes blood pH in a mammal is that it does notincrease blood pressure or worsen hypertension which is of particularconcern in diabetic kidney disease patients. An additional benefit ofnot introducing sodium is the lack of related increase in fluidretention causing fluid overload which is of particular concern in heartfailure patients. The polymer's ability to safely and efficaciouslytreat metabolic acidosis without introducing deleterious counter-ionsallows for slowing of progression of kidney disease which is ofparticular concern in chronic kidney disease patients who are not ondialysis yet. The onset of dialysis could be delayed by at least 3, 6, 9or 12 months.

In yet another embodiment of the sodium-free, non-absorbed, aminepolymer for treatment of metabolic acidosis, the polymer is acrosslinked bead with a preferred particle size range that is (i) largeenough to avoid passive or active absorption through the GI tract and(ii) small enough to not cause grittiness or unpleasant mouth feel wheningested as a powder, sachet and/or chewable tablet/dosage form with anaverage particle size of 40-180 microns. Preferably, the desiredparticle size morphology is accomplished through a heterogeneouspolymerization reaction such as a suspension or emulsion polymerization.To minimize GI side effects in patients that are often related to alarge volume polymer gel moving through the GI tract, a low SwellingRatio of the polymer is preferred (0.5-5 times its own weight in water).In yet another embodiment, the polymer carries a molecular entitypermanently/covalently and/or temporarily attached to a polymer or onits own that blocks the Cl⁻/HCO₃ ⁻ exchanger (antiporter) in the colonand intestine. The net effect of blocking the antiporter is to reduceuptake of Cl⁻ from the intestinal lumen and related exchange forbicarbonate from the serum, thus effectively increasing serumbicarbonate.

In one embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer may be co-administeredwith other active pharmaceutical agents depending on the condition beingtreated. This co-administration may include simultaneous administrationof the two agents in the same dosage form, simultaneous administrationin separate dosage forms, and separate administration. For example, forthe treatment of metabolic acidosis, the crosslinked amine polymer maybe co-administered with common treatments that are required to treatunderlying co-morbidities including but not limited to hypertension,diabetes, obesity, heart failure and complications of Chronic KidneyDisease. These medications and the crosslinked amine polymer can beformulated together in the same dosage form and administeredsimultaneously as long as they do not display any clinically significantdrug-drug-interactions. Alternatively, these treatments and thecrosslinked amine polymer may be separately and sequentiallyadministered with the administration of one being followed by theadministration of the other.

The present disclosure further includes the following enumeratedembodiments.

Embodiment 1. A process for the preparation of a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising crosslinking a preformed amine polymer in a reactionmixture to form a crosslinked amine polymer, the reaction mixturecomprising the preformed amine polymer, a solvent, a crosslinking agent,and a swelling agent for the preformed amine polymer, wherein thepreformed amine polymer has an absorption capacity for the swellingagent, and the amount of swelling agent in the reaction mixture is lessthan the absorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer for theswelling agent.

Embodiment 2. A process for the preparation of a particulate crosslinkedamine polymer, the process comprising (i) polymerizing anamine-containing monomer to form a particulate preformed amine polymer,(ii) deprotonating the preformed amine polymer with a base, (iii)swelling the deprotonated preformed amine polymer with a swelling agent,and (iv) crosslinking the preformed amine polymer with a crosslinkingagent comprising amine-reactive moieties in a reaction mixture, whereincarbon-carbon crosslinks are primarily formed in the polymerization stepand nitrogen-nitrogen crosslinks are primarily formed in thecrosslinking step.

Embodiment 3. A process for the preparation of a particulate crosslinkedamine polymer, the process comprising forming the particulatecrosslinked amine polymer in at least two polymerization/crosslinkingsteps, the first step comprising polymerizing an amine-containingmonomer to form a preformed amine polymer having a chloride bindingcapacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and aSwelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10, the second step comprisingcrosslinking the preformed amine polymer with a crosslinking agent in areaction mixture to produce nitrogen-nitrogen crosslinks within thepreformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 4. A process for the preparation of a particulate crosslinkedamine polymer, the process comprising two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps, the first step comprising forming apreformed amine polymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in therange of 2 to 10, the second step comprising crosslinking the preformedamine polymer with a crosslinking agent containing amine reactivemoieties to form a post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer in areaction mixture, the resulting post-polymerization crosslinked aminepolymer having a binding capacity for phosphate, citrate and/ortaurocholate in SIB or SOB that is less than the binding capacity of thepreformed amine polymer for phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate inthat same assay.

Embodiment 5. A process for the preparation of a particulate crosslinkedamine polymer, the process comprising (i) forming a preformed aminepolymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g inSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”), a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to10 and an average particle size of at least 80 microns, (ii) at leastpartially deprotonating the preformed amine polymer with a base and(iii) crosslinking the deprotonated preformed amine polymer in areaction mixture with a crosslinking agent containing amine reactivemoieties to form a post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 6. A process for the preparation of a particulate crosslinkedamine polymer, the process comprising (i) forming a preformed aminepolymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g inSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2to 10, (ii) at least partially deprotonating the preformed amine polymerwith a base, (iii) contacting the preformed amine polymer with aswelling agent to swell the deprotonated preformed amine polymer, and(iv) in a reaction mixture crosslinking the swollen, deprotonatedpreformed amine polymer with a crosslinking agent containing aminereactive moieties to form a post-polymerization crosslinked aminepolymer.

Embodiment 7. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodiment whereinthe swelling agent is a polar solvent.

Embodiment 8. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentswherein the swelling agent is water, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol,isopropanol, n-butanol, formic acid, acetic acid, acetonitrile,dimethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide, nitromethane, propylene carbonate,or a combination thereof.

Embodiment 9. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodiment whereinthe weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 4:1.

Embodiment 10. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture is less than 3:1.

Embodiment 11. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture is less than 2:1.

Embodiment 12. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture is less than 1:1.

Embodiment 13. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture is less than 0.5:1.

Embodiment 14. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture is less than 0.4:1.

Embodiment 15. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture is less than 0.3:1.

Embodiment 16. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the weight ratio of swelling agent to preformed amine polymer inthe reaction mixture is at least 0.15:1.

Embodiment 17. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the crosslinking agent comprises at least two amine-reactivefunctional groups.

Embodiment 18. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the crosslinking agent is a compound containing at least twoamine-reactive groups selected from the group consisting of alkylhalides, epoxides, phosgene, anhydrides, carbamates, carbonates,isocyanates, thioisocyanates, esters, activated esters, carboxylic acidsand derivatives thereof, sulfonates and derivatives thereof, acylhalides, aziridines, α,β-unsaturated carbonyls, ketones, aldehydes, andpentafluoroaryl groups.

Embodiment 19. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the crosslinking agent is a crosslinking agent selected fromTable B.

Embodiment 20. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the crosslinking agent is a dichloroalkane.

Embodiment 21. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the crosslinking agent is dichloroethane or dichloropropane.

Embodiment 22. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the reaction mixture comprises a non-polar solvent.

Embodiment 23. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the reaction mixture comprises a crosslinking solvent.

Embodiment 24. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the swelling agent and the solvent are immiscible.

Embodiment 25. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the swelling agent and the crosslinking agent are immiscible.

Embodiment 26. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the preformed polymer is combined with the crosslinking agentand solvent before the polymer is combined with the swelling agent.

Embodiment 27. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the process additionally comprises forming the preformed aminepolymer in a solvent system and the crosslinked amine polymer is formedwithout isolation of the preformed amine polymer from the solventsystem.

Embodiment 28. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the preformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an amineselected from Table C.

Embodiment 29. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the preformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an aminecorresponding to Formula 1:

wherein R₁, R₂ and R₃ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl,substituted hydrocarbyl provided, however, at least one of R₁, R₂ and R₃is other than hydrogen.

Embodiment 30. The process of any preceding enumerated Embodimentwherein the preformed amine polymer is characterized by a firstselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SIB and/or SOB and the crosslinked polymer ischaracterized by a second selectivity for chloride relative to citrate,phosphate and/or taurocholate in SIB and/or SOB wherein:

-   -   (i) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate in        SIB relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (ii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate in        SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (iii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for citrate in SOB        relative to the preformed amine polymer, or    -   (iv) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for taurocholate        in SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 31. The process of Embodiment 30 wherein the crosslinkedpolymer has a decreased binding capacity for chloride in SGF relative tothe preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 32. The process of Embodiment 30 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate in SIB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity inSGF.

Embodiment 33. The process of Embodiment 30 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate, in combination, inSOB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity in SGF.

Embodiment 34. A process for the preparation of a crosslinked aminepolymer comprising crosslinking a preformed amine polymer in a reactionmixture to form a crosslinked amine polymer, the reaction mixturecomprising the preformed amine polymer, a solvent, and a crosslinkingagent, wherein the preformed amine polymer is characterized by a firstselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SIB and/or SOB and the crosslinked polymer ischaracterized by a second selectivity for chloride relative to citrate,phosphate and/or taurocholate in SIB and/or SOB wherein:

-   -   (i) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate in        SIB relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (ii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for citrate in SIB        relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (iii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for citrate in SOB        relative to the preformed amine polymer, or    -   (iv) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for taurocholate        in SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 35. The process of Embodiment 34 wherein the crosslinkedpolymer has a decreased binding capacity for chloride in SGF relative tothe preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 36. The process of Embodiment 34 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate in SIB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity inSGF.

Embodiment 37. The process of Embodiment 34 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate, in combination, inSOB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity in SGF.

Embodiment 38. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB as described in certain paragraphsabove. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked aminepolymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”). In one embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has achloride ion binding capacity of at least 4.5, 5, 5.5, or even at least6 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a ratio of chloride ion binding capacity tophosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a ratio of chloride ion binding capacityto phosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.5:1, 3:1, 3.5:1, or even 4:1, respectively.A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 1mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), aphosphate ion binding capacity of less than 0.4 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity of at least 1.5 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 0.6 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In anothersuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 2.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than0.8 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 2.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.0 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity of at least 3.0 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 1.3 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 3.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.5 mmol/gin SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of atleast 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4.0 mmol/g inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ionbinding capacity of less than 1.7 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion tophosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 4.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than1.9 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 5.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 2.1 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In each of the foregoing embodiments, the crosslinkedamine polymer may have a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5 or even at least 4,respectively. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having a ratio of chloride ionbinding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1, respectively, anda Swelling Ratio of less than 5. For example, in one such embodiment,the crosslinked amine polymer may have a chloride ion to phosphate ionbinding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, at least 2.5, at least 3, atleast 3.5 or even at least 4, respectively, and a Swelling Ratio of lessthan 5, less than 4, less than 3, less than 2, less than 1.5 or evenless than 1. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked aminepolymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having a retained chloride contentof at least 30% of the chloride that was initially bound in a GICompartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”) (i.e., bound during the SGF bindingstep). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has aretained chloride content of at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%,at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% or even at least 90% of thechloride that was initially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a retained chloride content of at least 0.5 mmolchloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”). Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a retainedchloride content of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2,at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, oreven at least 5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment TransitAssay (“GICTA”). A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having a retained chloride contentof at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment TransitAssay (“GICTA”) and a chloride retention at the end of the GICTA of atleast 30% of the chloride that was initially bound in the GICTA (i.e.,bound during the SGF binding step). In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloride content of at least30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least80% or even at least 90% of the chloride that was initially bound in aGI Compartment Transit Assay and a retained chloride content of at least0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, atleast 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/gof polymer in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”). A pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer characterized by abinding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relativeto citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB havinga chloride ion binding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 8 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least12, at least 13, or even at least 14 mmol/g in a 24-hour SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer characterized by a binding capacity forchloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relative to citrate,phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having a chlorideion binding capacity in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assaythat is at least 50% of its chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, atleast 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of itschloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay, a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8 mmol/g in a24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay, and a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay thatis at least 50% of its chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay and achloride ion binding capacity of at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, atleast 11, at least 12, at least 13, or even at least 14 mmol/g in a24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay and the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hour SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, at least 60%, at least70%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of its chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay ofat least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”)assay of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/g polymer. A pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer characterized by abinding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relativeto citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB havinga chloride ion binding capacity in a 2-hour Simulated Small IntestineOrganic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 0.5 mmolchloride/g polymer and a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer.In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 2-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least1.5, at least 2, at least 2.5, or even at least 3 mmol chloride/gpolymer and a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/g polymer. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmolchloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymerhas a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, atleast 3, at least 3.5, or even at least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmolchloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) and a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 24 hours inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, or evenat least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) and a crosslinked amine polymerhaving a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, atleast 3, at least 3.5, or even at least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 24hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay ofat least 5.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”)assay of at least 6 mmol chloride/g polymer. A pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer characterized by abinding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relativeto citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB whereinthe crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a pKa of at least 6.5, at least 7, or even at least 7.5 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl). A pharmaceutical compositioncomprising a crosslinked amine polymer characterized by a bindingcapacity for chloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relative tocitrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having (i)a proton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g at 1 hour in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”). A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer characterized by a binding capacity forchloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relative to citrate,phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having (i) aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ion binding capacity ofless than 2 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer(“SIB”). A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked aminepolymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having (i) a proton-binding capacityand a chloride binding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in SimulatedGastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride ion binding capacity at 1 hour inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least (i) 2mmol/g, (ii) 2.5 mmol/g, or (iii) 3 mmol/g. A pharmaceutical compositioncomprising a crosslinked amine polymer characterized by a bindingcapacity for chloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relative tocitrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having (i)a proton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and (ii) a chloride to phosphate ionbinding ratio of at least 2.3:1, respectively, in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). A pharmaceutical compositioncomprising a crosslinked amine polymer characterized by a bindingcapacity for chloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relative tocitrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having (i)a proton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g at one hour in Simulated Gastric Fluid and (ii) a proton-bindingcapacity and a chloride binding capacity in Simulated Gastric Fluid ofat least (a) 8 mmol/g, (b) 10 mmol/g, (c) 12 mmol/g, or (d) 14 mmol/g. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity at one hour in Simulated Gastric Fluid that is at least X % ofthe proton-binding capacity and the chloride binding capacity,respectively, of the crosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in SimulatedGastric Fluid wherein X % is at least (i) 50%, (ii) 60%, (iii) 70%, (iv)80%, or even (v) 90%. A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer characterized by a binding capacity forchloride and/or a selectivity for chloride relative to citrate,phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having (i) aselectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphate and taurocholate inSimulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”), and (ii)a chloride binding capacity at 24 hours in SOB of at least 4 mmol/g. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymercharacterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or a selectivityfor chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SGF,SIB and/or SOB having a selectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphateand taurocholate in Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”), at (i) 1 hour, (ii) 4 hours, (iii) 12 hours, (iv) 18hours, (v) 24 hours, (vi) 30 hours, (vii) 36 hours, or even (viii) 48hours. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked aminepolymer characterized by a binding capacity for chloride and/or aselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SGF, SIB and/or SOB having a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ion binding capacity ofless than 2 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”)at (i) 1 hour, (ii) 2 hours, (iii) 3 hours, (iv) 4 hours, and/or (v)greater than 4 hours.

Embodiment 39. A method of treating and acid/base disorder in an animalincluding a human by removing HCl through oral administration of apharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 38.

Embodiment 40. A method of treating and acid/base disorder in an animalincluding a human by removing HCl through oral administration of apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymerprepared by the process of any of Embodiments 1 to 37.

Embodiment 41. A process for the preparation of a crosslinked aminepolymer, the process comprising (i) swelling a preformed amine polymerwith a swelling agent, (ii) dispersing the preformed amine polymer in areaction mixture comprising a dispersing solvent, a crosslinking agent,and the swelling agent, and (iii) crosslinking the preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture to form the crosslinked amine polymer,wherein the preformed amine polymer is crosslinked and has an absorptioncapacity for the swelling agent, and the amount of swelling agent in thereaction mixture is less than the absorption capacity of the preformedamine polymer for the swelling agent.

Embodiment 42. The process of Embodiment 41 wherein the process furthercomprises deprotonating the preformed amine polymer with a base beforeit is swollen with the swelling agent.

Embodiment 43. The process of Embodiment 41 or 42 wherein the crosslinksin the preformed amine polymer are primarily carbon-carbon crosslinksand nitrogen-nitrogen crosslinks are primarily formed in thecrosslinking step.

Embodiment 44. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 43 wherein thepreformed amine polymer has a chloride binding capacity of at least 10mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in therange of 2 to 10, and the crosslinked amine polymer has a bindingcapacity for phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate in SIB or SOB thatis less than the binding capacity of the preformed amine polymer forphosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate in that same assay.

Embodiment 45. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 44 wherein thedispersing solvent comprises a non-polar solvent.

Embodiment 46. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 45 wherein thedispersing solvent comprises a solvent that is chemically inert to thepreformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 47. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 46 wherein thedispersing solvent comprises a crosslinking solvent.

Embodiment 48. The process of any of claims 41 to 44 wherein thecrosslinking agent is the dispersing solvent.

Embodiment 49. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 48 wherein theswelling agent and the dispersing solvent are immiscible.

Embodiment 50. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 49 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 4:1.

Embodiment 51. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 50 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 3:1.

Embodiment 52. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 51 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 2:1.

Embodiment 53. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 52 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 1:1.

Embodiment 54. A process for the preparation of a crosslinked aminepolymer, the process comprising (i) swelling a preformed amine polymerwith a swelling agent, and (ii) crosslinking the preformed amine polymerto form the crosslinked amine polymer in a reaction mixture comprising acrosslinking agent and the swelling agent, wherein the preformed aminepolymer is crosslinked and has an absorption capacity for the swellingagent, the amount of swelling agent in the reaction mixture is less thanthe absorption capacity of the preformed amine polymer for the swellingagent, and the weight ratio of swelling agent to the preformed aminepolymer in the reaction mixture is less than 1:1.

Embodiment 55. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 54 wherein theswelling agent is a polar solvent.

Embodiment 56. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 55 wherein theswelling agent is water, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol,n-butanol, formic acid, acetic acid, acetonitrile, dimethylformamide,dimethylsulfoxide, nitromethane, propylene carbonate, or a combinationthereof.

Embodiment 57. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 56 wherein theswelling agent is water.

Embodiment 58. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 57 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 0.5:1.

Embodiment 59. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 58 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 0.4:1.

Embodiment 60. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 59 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 0.3:1.

Embodiment 61. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 60 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is at least 0.15:1.

Embodiment 62. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 61 wherein thecrosslinking agent comprises at least two amine-reactive functionalgroups.

Embodiment 63. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 62 wherein thecrosslinking agent is a compound containing at least two amine-reactivegroups selected from the group consisting of alkyl halides, epoxides,phosgene, anhydrides, carbamates, carbonates, isocyanates,thioisocyanates, esters, activated esters, carboxylic acids andderivatives thereof, sulfonates and derivatives thereof, acyl halides,aziridines, α,β-unsaturated carbonyls, ketones, aldehydes, andpentafluoroaryl groups.

Embodiment 64. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 63 wherein thecrosslinking agent is a crosslinking agent selected from Table B.

Embodiment 65. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 64 wherein thecrosslinking agent is a dichloroalkane.

Embodiment 66. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 65 wherein thecrosslinking agent is dichloroethane or dichloropropane.

Embodiment 67. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 66 wherein theswelling agent and the crosslinking agent are immiscible.

Embodiment 68. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 67 wherein thepreformed polymer is combined with the crosslinking agent and thedispersing solvent before the polymer is swollen with the swellingagent.

Embodiment 69. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 68 wherein theprocess additionally comprises forming the preformed amine polymer in asolvent system and the crosslinked amine polymer is formed withoutisolation of the preformed amine polymer from the solvent system.

Embodiment 70. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 69 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an amine correspondingto Formula 1:

Embodiment 71. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 69 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an amine correspondingto Formula 1a

wherein R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, orsubstituted hydrocarbyl.

Embodiment 72. The process of claim 71 wherein R₄ and R₅ areindependently hydrogen, aliphatic or heteroaliphatic.

Embodiment 73. The process of claim 71 wherein R₄ and R₅ areindependently hydrogen, allyl, or aminoalkyl.

Embodiment 74. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 73 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an amine of Table C.

Embodiment 75. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 74 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of allylamine.

Embodiment 76. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 75 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of diallylpropyldiamine.

Embodiment 77. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 76 wherein thepreformed amine polymer is a copolymer comprising the residues ofallylamine and diallylpropyldiamine.

Embodiment 78. The process of any of Embodiments 41 to 77 wherein thepreformed amine polymer is characterized by a first selectivity forchloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SIBand/or SOB and the crosslinked polymer is characterized by a secondselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SIB and/or SOB wherein:

-   -   (i) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate in        SIB relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (ii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate in        SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (iii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for citrate in SOB        relative to the preformed amine polymer, or    -   (iv) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for taurocholate        in SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 79. The process of Embodiment 78 wherein the crosslinkedpolymer has a decreased binding capacity for chloride in SGF relative tothe preformed amine polymer

Embodiment 80. The process of Embodiment 78 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate in SIB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity inSGF.

Embodiment 81. The process of Embodiment 78 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate, in combination, inSOB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity in SGF.

Embodiment 82. A process for the preparation of a crosslinked aminepolymer, the process comprising crosslinking a preformed amine polymerin a reaction mixture to form the crosslinked amine polymer, thereaction mixture comprising the preformed amine polymer, a swellingagent that swells the preformed amine polymer and dichloroethane.

Embodiment 83. The process of Embodiment 82 wherein the reaction mixturecomprises a dispersing solvent.

Embodiment 84. The process of Embodiment 82 or 83 wherein the reactionmixture comprises a dispersing solvent dispersing solvent that ischemically inert to the preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 85. The process of Embodiment 82 or 83 wherein the reactionmixture comprises a dispersing solvent and the dispersing solvent isdichloroethane.

Embodiment 86. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 85 wherein theswelling agent and dichloroethane are immiscible.

Embodiment 87. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 4:1.

Embodiment 88. The process of any Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 3:1.

Embodiment 89. The process of any Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 2:1.

Embodiment 90. The process of any Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 1:1.

Embodiment 91. The process of any Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 0.5:1.

Embodiment 92. The process of any Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 0.4:1.

Embodiment 93. The process of any Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 0.3:1.

Embodiment 94. The process of any Embodiments 82 to 86 wherein theweight ratio of the swelling agent to preformed amine polymer in thereaction mixture is at least 0.15:1.

Embodiment 95. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 94 wherein thepreformed amine polymer is deprotonated with a base before it iscrosslinked in the reaction mixture.

Embodiment 96. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 95 wherein thepreformed amine polymer is crosslinked and the crosslinks are primarilycarbon-carbon crosslinks.

Embodiment 97. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 96 wherein theswelling agent is a polar solvent.

Embodiment 98. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 96 wherein theswelling agent is water, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol,n-butanol, formic acid, acetic acid, acetonitrile, dimethylformamide,dimethylsulfoxide, nitromethane, propylene carbonate, or a combinationthereof.

Embodiment 99. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 96 wherein theswelling agent is water.

Embodiment 100. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 99 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an amine correspondingto Formula 1:

Embodiment 101. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 99 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an amine correspondingto Formula 1a

wherein R₄ and R₅ are independently hydrogen, hydrocarbyl, orsubstituted hydrocarbyl.

Embodiment 102. The process of Embodiment 101 wherein R₄ and R₅ areindependently hydrogen, aliphatic or heteroaliphatic.

Embodiment 103. The process of Embodiment 101 wherein R₄ and R₅ areindependently hydrogen, allyl, or aminoalkyl.

Embodiment 104. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 99 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of an amine of Table C.

Embodiment 105. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 99 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of allylamine.

Embodiment 106. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 99 wherein thepreformed amine polymer comprises the residue of diallylpropyldiamine.

Embodiment 107. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 99 wherein thepreformed amine polymer is a copolymer comprising the residues ofallylamine and diallylpropyldiamine.

Embodiment 108. The process of any of Embodiments 82 to 107 wherein thepreformed amine polymer is characterized by a first selectivity forchloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/or taurocholate in SIBand/or SOB and the crosslinked polymer is characterized by a secondselectivity for chloride relative to citrate, phosphate and/ortaurocholate in SIB and/or SOB wherein:

-   -   (i) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate in        SIB relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (ii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for phosphate in        SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer,    -   (iii) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for citrate in SOB        relative to the preformed amine polymer, or    -   (iv) the crosslinked polymer has an increased binding capacity        for chloride and a decreased binding capacity for taurocholate        in SOB relative to the preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 109. The process of Embodiment 108 wherein the crosslinkedpolymer has a decreased binding capacity for chloride in SGF relative tothe preformed amine polymer.

Embodiment 110. The process of Embodiment 108 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate in SIB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity inSGF.

Embodiment 111. The process of Embodiment 108 wherein relative to thepreformed amine polymer the post-polymerization crosslinked polymer has(i) an increased binding capacity for chloride and a decreased bindingcapacity for phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate, in combination, inSOB and (ii) a decreased binding capacity in SGF.

Embodiment 112. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

Embodiment 113. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a ratio of chloride ion binding capacity tophosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1, respectively.

Embodiment 114. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 1mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), aphosphate ion binding capacity of less than 0.4 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively.

Embodiment 115. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a ratio of chloride ion binding capacity tophosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1, respectively, and a Swelling Ratio ofless than 5.

Embodiment 116. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a retained chloride content of at least 30% of thechloride that was initially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay(“GICTA”).

Embodiment 117. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a retained chloride content of at least 0.5 mmolchloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”).

Embodiment 118. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a retained chloride content of at least 0.5 mmolchloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”) and achloride retention at the end of the GICTA of at least 30% of thechloride that was initially bound in the GICTA.

Embodiment 119. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay and a chlorideion binding capacity of at least 8 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) Assay.

Embodiment 120. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50% of itschloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay.

Embodiment 121. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay, a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 8 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) Assay, and a chloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50% of itschloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay.

Embodiment 122. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay ofat least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer.

Embodiment 123. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity in a 2-hourSimulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay ofat least 0.5 mmol chloride/g polymer and a 24-hour Simulated SmallIntestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5mmol chloride/g polymer.

Embodiment 124. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmolchloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”).

Embodiment 125. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmolchloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) and a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 24 hours inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

Embodiment 126. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay ofat least 5.5 mmol chloride/g polymer.

Embodiment 127. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer as described in certain paragraphs above wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl). A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) prepared bya process comprising two discrete polymerization/crosslinking steps. Inthe first step, a preformed amine polymer having a chloride bindingcapacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and aSwelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 is formed. In the second step,the preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with a crosslinker containingamine reactive moieties to form a post-polymerization crosslinked aminepolymer. The resulting post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer hasa binding capacity for competing anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/ortaurocholate) in an appropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB) that is lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for the competinganions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in the sameappropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB). In one embodiment the preformedamine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one suchembodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in therange of 4 to 6. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) prepared by a processcomprising two discrete crosslinking steps. In the first crosslinkingstep, a preformed amine polymer is formed, the preformed amine polymerhaving a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 andan average particle size of at least 80 microns. The preformed aminepolymer is (at least partially) deprotonated with a base and, in thesecond step, the deprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinkedwith a crosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. Inone such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio inthe range of 4 to 6. A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) prepared bya process comprising two discrete polymerization/crosslinking steps. Inthe first step, a preformed amine polymer having a chloride bindingcapacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and aSwelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 is formed. The preformed aminepolymer is (at least partially) deprotonated with a base and contactedwith a swelling agent to swell the deprotonated preformed amine polymer.In the second step, the swollen, deprotonated preformed amine polymer iscrosslinked with a crosslinker containing amine reactive moieties toform a post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodimentthe preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8.In one such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratioin the range of 4 to 6. A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) and apharmaceutically acceptable excipient. The crosslinked amine polymer,for example, may be prepared by a process comprising crosslinking apreformed amine polymer in a reaction mixture containing the preformedamine polymer, a solvent, a crosslinking agent, and a swelling agent forthe preformed amine polymer. The swelling agent is preferably immisciblewith the solvent, the preformed amine polymer has an absorption capacityfor the swelling agent, and the amount of swelling agent in the reactionmixture is less than the absorption capacity of the preformed aminepolymer for the swelling agent. The crosslinked amine polymer, forexample, may be prepared by a process comprising crosslinking apreformed amine polymer in a reaction mixture containing the preformedamine polymer, a solvent, and a crosslinking agent to form a crosslinkedamine polymer. Prior to the crosslinking step, the preformed aminepolymer binds a first amount of chloride and competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) and after the crosslinking step,the crosslinked amine polymer binds a second (different) amount ofchloride and competing anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/ortaurocholate) in an appropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB). For example,in one such embodiment, the second amount of the competing anions (e.g.,phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) bound is relatively less thanthe first amount of the competing anions. The crosslinked amine polymer,for example, may be prepared by a process comprising two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps are performed in accordance with oneaspect of the present disclosure. In the first step, a preformed aminepolymer is prepared. The preformed amine polymer is deprotonated andfurther crosslinked in a second polymerization/crosslinking step to forma post-polymerization crosslinked polymer. Advantageously, the primarycrosslinking reaction is between carbon atoms (i.e., carbon-carboncrosslinking) in the first step, whereas crosslinking is primarilybetween amine moieties comprised by the preformed amine polymer in thesecond step. The crosslinked amine polymer, for example, may be preparedby a process comprising two discrete polymerization/crosslinking steps.In the first step, a preformed amine polymer having a chloride bindingcapacity of at least 10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and aSwelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10 is formed. In the second step,the preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with a crosslinker containingamine reactive moieties to form a post-polymerization crosslinked aminepolymer. The resulting post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer hasa binding capacity for competing anions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/ortaurocholate) in an appropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB) that is lessthan the binding capacity of the preformed polymer for the competinganions (e.g., phosphate, citrate and/or taurocholate) in the sameappropriate assay (e.g., SIB or SOB). In one embodiment the preformedamine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. In one suchembodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in therange of 4 to 6. The crosslinked amine polymer, for example, may beprepared by a process comprising two discrete crosslinking steps. In thefirst crosslinking step, a preformed amine polymer is formed, thepreformed amine polymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least10 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in therange of 2 to 10 and an average particle size of at least 80 microns.The preformed amine polymer is (at least partially) deprotonated with abase and, in the second step, the deprotonated preformed amine polymeris crosslinked with a crosslinker containing amine reactive moieties toform a post-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodimentthe preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8.In one such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratioin the range of 4 to 6. The crosslinked amine polymer, for example, maybe prepared by a process comprising two discretepolymerization/crosslinking steps. In the first step, a preformed aminepolymer having a chloride binding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g inSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2to 10 is formed. The preformed amine polymer is (at least partially)deprotonated with a base and contacted with a swelling agent to swellthe deprotonated preformed amine polymer. In the second step, theswollen, deprotonated preformed amine polymer is crosslinked with acrosslinker containing amine reactive moieties to form apost-polymerization crosslinked amine polymer. In one embodiment thepreformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio in the range of 3 to 8. Inone such embodiment, the preformed amine polymer has a Swelling Ratio inthe range of 4 to 6. A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having achloride ion binding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one embodiment, the crosslinkedamine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4.5, 5,5.5, or even at least 6 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”). A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a ratio ofchloride ion binding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacity inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has aratio of chloride ion binding capacity to phosphate ion binding capacityin Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.5:1,3:1, 3.5:1, or even 4:1, respectively. A pharmaceutical compositioncomprising a crosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked aminepolymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mMNaCl) having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 1 mmol/g inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ionbinding capacity of less than 0.4 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion tophosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 1.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than0.6 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In another such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 2.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 0.8 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2.5 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 1.0 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 3.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.3 mmol/gin SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of atleast 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 3.5 mmol/g inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ionbinding capacity of less than 1.5 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion tophosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. Inone such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 4.0 mmol/g in Simulated Small IntestineInorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than1.7 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio inSIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 4.5 mmol/g in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”),a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 1.9 mmol/g in SIB, and achloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1,respectively. In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer hasa chloride ion binding capacity of at least 5.0 mmol/g in SimulatedSmall Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”), a phosphate ion bindingcapacity of less than 2.1 mmol/g in SIB, and a chloride ion to phosphateion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.3:1, respectively. In each of theforegoing embodiments, the crosslinked amine polymer may have a chlorideion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB of at least 2.5, at least 3,at least 3.5 or even at least 4, respectively. A pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a ratio of chloride ion binding capacityto phosphate ion binding capacity in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) of at least 2.3:1, respectively, and a Swelling Ratio ofless than 5. For example, in one such embodiment, the crosslinked aminepolymer may have a chloride ion to phosphate ion binding ratio in SIB ofat least 2.3:1, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5 or even at least4, respectively, and a Swelling Ratio of less than 5, less than 4, lessthan 3, less than 2, less than 1.5 or even less than 1. A pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a retained chloride content of at least30% of the chloride that was initially bound in a GI Compartment TransitAssay (“GICTA”) (i.e., bound during the SGF binding step). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloridecontent of at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, atleast 70%, at least 80% or even at least 90% of the chloride that wasinitially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay. A pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a crosslinked amine polymer wherein thecrosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium,measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a retained chloride content of at least0.5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment Transit Assay(“GICTA”). In one such embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has aretained chloride content of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, atleast 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI CompartmentTransit Assay (“GICTA”). A pharmaceutical composition comprising acrosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having aretained chloride content of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g of polymer ina GI Compartment Transit Assay (“GICTA”) and a chloride retention at theend of the GICTA of at least 30% of the chloride that was initiallybound in the GICTA (i.e., bound during the SGF binding step). In onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a retained chloridecontent of at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, atleast 70%, at least 80% or even at least 90% of the chloride that wasinitially bound in a GI Compartment Transit Assay and a retainedchloride content of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2,at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, oreven at least 5 mmol chloride/g of polymer in a GI Compartment TransitAssay (“GICTA”). A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of atleast 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated GastricFluid (“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay and a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8, atleast 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, or even atleast 14 mmol/g in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymerwherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is atleast 50% of its chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hour SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, the crosslinkedamine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hour SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, at least 60%, at least70%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of its chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymerwherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) Assay, a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 8 mmol/g in a24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay, and a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay thatis at least 50% of its chloride ion binding capacity in a 24-hourSimulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. In one such embodiment, thecrosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity of atleast 5 mmol/g in a 1-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay and achloride ion binding capacity of at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, atleast 11, at least 12, at least 13, or even at least 14 mmol/g in a24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay and the crosslinked aminepolymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a 1-hour SimulatedGastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay that is at least 50%, at least 60%, at least70%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of its chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 24-hour Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) Assay. Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymerwherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 2.5, at least 3, at least3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even at least 5 mmol chloride/gpolymer. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked aminepolymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6(at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 2-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 0.5 mmol chloride/g polymer and a24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”)assay of at least 2.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In one such embodiment,the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion binding capacity in a2-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”)assay of at least 0.5, at least 1, at least 1.5, at least 2, at least2.5, or even at least 3 mmol chloride/g polymer and a 24-hour SimulatedSmall Intestine Organic and Inorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, at least 4, at least 4.5, or even atleast 5 mmol chloride/g polymer. A pharmaceutical composition comprisinga crosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has apKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having achloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, or evenat least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). A pharmaceutical compositioncomprising a crosslinked amine polymer wherein the crosslinked aminepolymer has a pKa of at least 6 (at equilibrium, measured in 100 mMNaCl) having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2 mmolchloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated Small Intestine InorganicBuffer (“SIB”) and a crosslinked amine polymer having a chloride ionbinding capacity of at least 2 mmol chloride/g polymer at 24 hours inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). In one suchembodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, at least 3, at least 3.5, or evenat least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 4 hours in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) and a crosslinked amine polymerhaving a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 2, at least 2.5, atleast 3, at least 3.5, or even at least 4 mmol chloride/g polymer at 24hours in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”). Apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymerwherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a pKa of at least 6 (atequilibrium, measured in 100 mM NaCl) having a chloride ion bindingcapacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 5.5 mmol chloride/g polymer. In onesuch embodiment, the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ionbinding capacity in a 24-hour Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”) assay of at least 6 mmol chloride/g polymer.

Embodiment 128. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having (i) a proton-binding capacity and a chloridebinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and(ii) a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g at 1 hour inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

Embodiment 129. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having (i) a proton-binding capacity and a chloridebinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and(ii) a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and aphosphate ion binding capacity of less than 2 mmol/g in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

Embodiment 130. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having (i) a proton-binding capacity and a chloridebinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and(ii) a chloride ion binding capacity at 1 hour in Simulated SmallIntestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) of at least 2 mmol/g.

Embodiment 131. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having (i) a proton-binding capacity and a chloridebinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g in Simulated Gastric Fluid; and(ii) a chloride to phosphate ion binding ratio of at least 2.3:1,respectively, in Simulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”).

Embodiment 132. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having (i) a proton-binding capacity and a chloridebinding capacity of at least 5 mmol/g at one hour in Simulated GastricFluid and (ii) a proton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacityin Simulated Gastric Fluid of at least 8 mmol/g.

Embodiment 133. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a proton-binding capacity and a chloride bindingcapacity at one hour in Simulated Gastric Fluid that is at least X % ofthe proton-binding capacity and the chloride binding capacity,respectively, of the crosslinked amine polymer at 24 hours in SimulatedGastric Fluid wherein X % is at least 50%.

Embodiment 134. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having (i) a selectivity for chloride over citrate,phosphate and taurocholate in Simulated Small Intestine Organic andInorganic Buffer (“SOB”), and (ii) a chloride binding capacity at 24hours in SOB of at least 4 mmol/g.

Embodiment 135. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a selectivity for chloride over citrate, phosphateand taurocholate in Simulated Small Intestine Organic and InorganicBuffer (“SOB”), at (i) 1 hour, (ii) 4 hours, (iii) 12 hours, (iv) 18hours, (v) 24 hours, (vi) 30 hours, (vii) 36 hours, or even (viii) 48hours.

Embodiment 136. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinkedamine polymer having a chloride ion binding capacity of at least 4mmol/g, and a phosphate ion binding capacity of less than 2 mmol/g inSimulated Small Intestine Inorganic Buffer (“SIB”) at (i) 1 hour, (ii) 2hours, (iii) 3 hours, (iv) 4 hours, and/or (v) greater than 4 hours.

Embodiment 137. A method of treating an acid/base disorder in an animalincluding a human by removing HCl through oral administration of apharmaceutical composition of any of Embodiments 122 to 136.

Embodiment 138. A method of treating an acid/base disorder in an animalincluding a human by removing HCl through oral administration of apharmaceutical composition comprising a crosslinked amine polymerprepared by the process of any of Embodiments 41 to 111.

Embodiment 139. A polymer comprising a structure corresponding toFormula 4:

wherein each R is independently hydrogen or an ethylene crosslinkbetween two nitrogen atoms of the crosslinked amine polymer

and a, b, c, and m are integers.

Embodiment 140. The polymer of Embodiment 139 wherein m is a largeinteger indicating an extended polymer network.

Embodiment 141. The polymer of Embodiment 139 or 140 wherein a ratio ofthe sum of a and b to c (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range of about 1:1 to5:1.

Embodiment 142. The polymer of Embodiment 139 or 140 wherein a ratio ofthe sum of a and b to c (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range of about 1.5:1 to4:1.

Embodiment 143. The polymer of Embodiment 139 or 140 wherein a ratio ofthe sum of a and b to c (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range of about 1.75:1 to3:1.

Embodiment 144. The polymer of Embodiment 139 or 140 wherein a ratio ofthe sum of a and b to c (i.e., a+b:c) is in the range of about 2:1 to2.5:1.

Embodiment 145. The polymer of Embodiment 139 or 140 wherein the sum ofa and b is 57 and c is 24.

Embodiment 146. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 wherein50-95% of the R substituents are hydrogen and 5-50% are an ethylenecrosslink between two nitrogens of the crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 147. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 wherein55-90% of the R substituents are hydrogen and 10-45% are an ethylenecrosslink between two nitrogens of the crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 148. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 wherein60-90% of the R substituents are hydrogen and 10-40% are an ethylenecrosslink between two nitrogens of the crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 149. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 wherein65-90% of the R substituents are hydrogen and 10-35% are an ethylenecrosslink between two nitrogens of the crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 150. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 wherein70-90% of the R substituents are hydrogen and 10-30% are an ethylenecrosslink between two nitrogens of the crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 151. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 wherein75-85% of the R substituents are hydrogen and 15-25% are an ethylenecrosslink between two nitrogens of the crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 152. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 wherein80-85% of the R substituents are hydrogen and 15-205% are an ethylenecrosslink between two nitrogens of the crosslinked amine polymer.

Embodiment 153. The polymer of any of Embodiments 139 to 145 whereinabout 81% of the R substituents are hydrogen and about 19% are anethylene crosslink.

Embodiment 154. A pharmaceutical composition comprising apharmaceutically acceptable excipient and a crosslinked amine polymer ofany of Embodiments 139 to 153.

Embodiment 155. A method of treating an acid/base disorder in an animalincluding a human by removing HCl through oral administration of apharmaceutical composition of Embodiment 154.

Having described the invention in detail, it will be apparent thatmodifications and variations are possible without departing the scope ofthe invention defined in the appended claims. Furthermore, it should beappreciated that all examples in the present disclosure are provided asnon-limiting examples.

EXAMPLES

The following non-limiting examples are provided to further illustratethe present invention. It should be appreciated by those of skill in theart that the techniques disclosed in the examples that follow representapproaches the inventors have found function well in the practice of theinvention, and thus can be considered to constitute examples of modesfor its practice. However, those of skill in the art should, in light ofthe present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can be made in thespecific embodiments that are disclosed and still obtain a like orsimilar result without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

General Procedure for DCE-Dispersed Crosslinking

Dry preformed amine polymer beads were added to a reactor vesselequipped with a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To the beads wasadded 1,2-dichloroethane (DCE). The beads were dispersed in the DCEusing mechanical agitation. Water was added directly to the dispersion,and stirring was continued for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the flaskwas immersed into an oil bath held at a chosen temperature. The reactionwas held in the oil bath and agitated using mechanical stirring under anitrogen atmosphere for a chosen amount of time. Methanol was added tothe reaction and, solvent was removed by decanting. The beads were thenfiltered, and then purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCltwo times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂O until the pH ofsolution after washing was 7). The purified beads were then dried bylyophilization for 48 hours.

Specific Example Procedure for DCE-Dispersed Crosslinking

Unless otherwise noted, the example procedure below is the standardrecipe for all of the examples in this section. Specifically, thisdenotes a 1:6 bead to DCE (g/mL) ratio, 0.25:1 water to bead mass ratio,70° C. jacket (oil bath) temperature, and 16 hours reaction time.

Dry preformed amine polymer beads (15.00 g) were added to a 250 mL roundbottom flask equipped with a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To thebeads was added 1,2-dichloroethane (DCE) (90 mL, resulting in a 1:6 beadto DCE (g/mL) ratio). The beads were dispersed in the DCE usingmechanical agitation (˜150 rpm stirring). Water (3.75 mL, resulting in a0.25:1 water to bead mass ratio) was added directly to the dispersion,and stirring was continued for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the flaskwas immersed into an oil bath held at 70° C. The reaction was held inthe oil bath and agitated using mechanical stirring under a nitrogenatmosphere for 16 hours. Methanol (100 mL) was added to the reactionand, solvent was removed by decanting. The beads were then filtered, andthen purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCl two times,H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂O until the pH of solutionafter washing was 7). The purified beads were then dried bylyophilization for 48 hours.

Effect of Water on DCE-Dispersed Crosslinking Reaction

The effect of the amount of water added to an example reaction mixturewas explored (Table 1). Under these conditions, chloride binding in SIBand SOB increased while phosphate, citrate and taurocholate bindingdecreased relative to that of the preformed amine polymer (sample019069-A1). The particle sizes decreased after second step crosslinking.The water content that yielded the highest selectivity and highest totalchloride binding as measured in SIB was found to be in the range of0.25-0.35 water to bead ratio.

The preformed amine polymer beads that were the source dry beads for theDCE-dispersed crosslinking reaction were prepared as follows. Twoaqueous stock solutions of monomer (50% w/w) were prepared byindependently dissolving 43.83 g allylamine hydrochloride and 45.60 gDAPDA in water. A 3-neck, 2 L round bottom flask with four side bafflesequipped with an overhead stirrer (stirring at 180 rpm), Dean-Starkapparatus and condenser, and nitrogen inlet, was charged with 12 gsurfactant (Stepan Sulfonic 100) dissolved in 1,200 g of aheptane/chlorobenzene solution (26/74 v/v), followed by the aqueousstock solutions, and an additional portion of water (59.14 g). In aseparate vessel, a 15 wt % solution of initiator V-50 (9.08 g) in waterwas prepared. The two mixtures were independently sparged with nitrogenwhile the reaction vessel was brought to 67° C. in an oil bath(approximately 30 min). Under inert atmosphere, the initiator solutionwas added to the reaction mixture, and subsequently heated at 67° C. for16 hours. A second aliquot of initiator solution (equal to the first)and the reaction mixture, were sparged with nitrogen for 30 minutes andcombined before increasing the temperature to 115° C. for a finaldehydration step (Dean-Stark). The reaction was held at 115° C. untilwater stopped collecting in the Dean-Stark trap (6 h, 235 mLremoved, >90% of total water, T_(internal)>99° C.). The reaction wasallowed to cool to room temperature, and the stirring stopped to allowthe beads to settle. The organic phase was removed from the bead cake bydecanting. The beads were purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂O once,1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂O until thepH of solution after washing was 7) and dried by lyophilization.

TABLE 1 Water content gradient for DCE-dispersed second stepcrosslinking. Binding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- Water:Swell- (microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID Bead ing D10 D50 D90 SGFCl P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) Averaged from — 5.0 79 129 209 13.9 2.06.0 0.4 1.3 0.5 1.2 019069-A1 FA pooled batch* 030008-A1 FA 0.00 1.9 NMNM NM 11.8 2.4 4.0 NM NM NM NM 019070-A1 FA 0.05 1.5 64 99 155 11.1 2.43.5 2.0 0.0 3.2 0.1 019070-A2 FA 0.15 1.1 64 97 147 11.0 3.3 2.5 1.0 0.02.5 0.1 019070-A3 FA 0.25 1.2 63 102 168 10.4 4.4 1.4 0.8 0.0 2.8 0.1019070-A4 FA 0.35 0.7 59 91 140 10.7 4.5 1.3 0.9 0.0 3.0 0.1 019070-A5FA 0.45 1.6 63 105 184 11.1 3.7 2.5 1.0 0.0 3.2 0.1 *Averaged data from4 batches of preformed polyamine bead; NM: not measured

Effect of Time and Temperature

The effect of temperature on the reaction was studied by following thereaction progress as a function of time. In these experiments, it wasfound that the desired performance could be attained at all of thetemperatures studied between 55° C. and 70° C., though the reactionprogress is slower at lower temperatures (Table 2, Table 3, Table 4 andTable 5).

TABLE 2 Time course for DCE dispersed second step crosslinking at 70° C.The example procedure was used with the following changes: 20 g of drybeads were used for the reaction, using the ratios as described, and 1 gsamples were removed at the time intervals indicated in the table.Binding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- Time Swell- (microns)SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID (h) ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h)(24 h) (24 h) 019076-A7 FA 2 1.2 NM NM NM 12.1 2.9 3.9 1.2 0.1 3.3 0.1019074-A1 FA 3 1.2 64 102 163 11.8 3.6 3.1 0.9 0.1 3.1 0.1 019074-A2 FA6 1.1 65 102 162 11.5 4.5 2.0 0.8 0.1 2.2 0.1 019074-A3 FA 9 1.1 61 100168 11.2 4.4 1.8 0.9 0.1 3.0 0.1 019074-A4 FA 12 1.0 65 102 161 11.0 4.81.2 1.0 0.1 3.3 0.1 018082-A6 FA 24 1.0 NM NM NM 10.1 4.6 0.8 2.2 0.04.3 0.2 NM: Not measured

TABLE 3 Time course for DCE dispersed second step crosslinking at 65° C.The example procedure was used with the following changes: 20 g of drybeads were used for the reaction, using the ratios as described, and 1 gsamples were removed at the time intervals indicated in the table.Binding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- Time Swell- (microns)SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID (h) ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h)(24 h) (24 h) 019079-A1 FA 2 1.4 NM NM NM 12.7 2.5 4.8 0.7 0.0 3.2 0.1019079-A2 FA 4 1.4 NM NM NM 12.2 3.3 3.8 0.6 0.0 2.8 0.1 019079-A3 FA 61.1 NM NM NM 12.3 3.9 2.9 0.7 0.0 3.4 0.1 019079-A4 FA 8 1.2 NM NM NM12.0 4.4 2.5 0.7 0.0 3.3 0.1 019079-A5 FA 10 1.5 NM NM NM 11.8 4.7 2.10.6 0.0 2.7 0.1 019079-A6 FA 12 1.4 NM NM NM 11.8 4.8 1.9 0.6 0.0 2.90.1 019079-A7 FA 24 1.2 NM NM NM 11.4 5.1 1.4 0.8 0.0 2.7 0.1 NM: Notmeasured

TABLE 4 Time course for DCE dispersed second step crosslinking at 60° C.The example procedure was used with the following changes: 20 g of drybeads were used for the reaction, using the ratios as described, and 1 gsamples were removed at the time intervals indicated in the table.Binding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- Time Swell- (microns)SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID (h) ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h)(24 h) (24 h) 025002-A1 FA 2 1.6 NM NM NM 12.7 2.0 5.2 1.2 0.0 3.3 0.1025002-A2 FA 4 1.4 NM NM NM 12.4 2.7 4.2 0.7 0.0 3.3 0.1 025002-A3 FA 61.4 NM NM NM 12.3 3.4 3.4 0.9 0.0 3.7 0.1 025002-A4 FA 8 1.3 NM NM NM11.9 3.9 2.8 0.7 0.0 2.7 0.1 025002-A5 FA 10 1.8 NM NM NM 11.9 4.3 2.41.0 0.0 4.1 0.1 025002-A6 FA 12 1.0 NM NM NM 11.8 4.6 2.1 0.6 0.0 2.80.0 025002-A7 FA 24 1.2 NM NM NM 11.2 5.0 1.2 0.6 0.0 2.3 0.0 NM: Notmeasured

TABLE 5 Time course for DCE dispersed second step crosslinking at 55° C.The example procedure was used with the following changes: 20 g of drybeads were used for the reaction, using the ratios as described, and 1 gsamples were removed at the time intervals indicated in the table.Binding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- Time Swell- (microns)SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID (h) ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h)(24 h) (24 h) 025002-C1 FA 2 1.6 NM NM NM 13.1 1.9 5.5 3.9 0.2 4.7 0.4025002-C2 FA 4 1.6 NM NM NM 12.7 2.3 4.9 0.8 0.0 3.2 0.2 025002-C3 FA 61.7 NM NM NM 12.3 2.9 4.4 0.6 0.0 3.1 0.1 025002-C4 FA 8 1.4 NM NM NM12.2 3.5 3.9 0.6 0.0 3.5 0.1 025002-C5 FA 10 1.4 NM NM NM 12.1 3.6 3.20.6 0.0 3.3 0.1 025002-C6 FA 12 1.5 NM NM NM 12.3 3.9 2.8 0.8 0.0 3.70.1 025002-C7 FA 24 1.1 NM NM NM 12.0 4.7 1.5 0.6 0.0 3.3 0.1 NM: Notmeasured

Effect of DCE to Preformed Amine Polymer Ratio on Second StepCrosslinking

The effect of the amount of DCE added to the reaction mixture todisperse the beads was explored (Table 6). Under these conditions, itwas found that the ratio of DCE to bead (preformed amine polymer) doesnot substantially change the chloride binding or selectivity in SIB orSOB. Note that 3:1 ratio is approximately minimum to have enough DCE fordispersing the beads.

TABLE 6 Series examining the effect of the DCE to bead ratio. Theexample procedure was used for the 6:1 DCE to bead ratio, which used 90mL of DCE in a 250 mL flask. For each of the other ratios, 90 mL of DCEwas kept constant, and the amount of beads used were adjusted to satisfythe DCE to bead ratio. The water was adjusted accordingly (e.g. the 10:1DCE to bead ratio used 9 g of beads, and 2.25 g of water) Binding(mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- DCE: Swell- (microns) SIB-SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID Bead ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h) (24h) (24 h) 018082-A1 FA 3 1.1 68 109 185 10.9 4.7 1.3 1.2 0.0 3.2 0.1018082-A2 FA 4 1.2 62 94 150 11.2 4.9 1.3 1.2 0.0 3.8 0.1 018082-A3 FA 51.1 58 93 147 11.0 4.8 1.3 1.2 0.0 3.8 0.1 019070-A3 FA 6 1.2 63 102 16810.4 4.4 1.4 0.8 0.0 2.8 0.1 018082-A5 FA 10 1.0 61 97 160 10.9 4.8 1.10.9 0.0 3.0 0.1

Effect of HCL in Preformed Amine Polymer on Second Step Crosslinking

The effect of residual hydrochloric acid in preformed amine polymer(e.g. due to an insufficient washing) on the second step crosslinkingwas studied (Table 7). In these experiments, it was found that thechloride selectivity and binding capacity were unaffected if less than3% of the amines in the pre-formed amine polymer are protonated.

TABLE 7 Effect of residual hydrochloric acid in preformed amine polymeron second step crosslinking reaction. (100 mL vessel, 3 g beads, 6:1 DCEto heptane ratio, 0.5:1 water to bead ratio, 70° C., 16 hours, noDean-Stark). Hydrochloric acid was added to the bead in the water usedin the reaction. mol % Binding (mmol/g) HCl: Particle Size SOB- SOB-SOB- SOB- Amine Swell- (microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID bead ingD10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 015046-A1 FA 0 1.0 NM NMNM 11.6 5.2 1.4 1.7 0.0 4.5 0.1 015046-A2 FA 0.1 1.1 NM NM NM 11.4 5.01.5 NM NM NM NM 015046-A3 FA 1 1.1 91 162 281 11.6 4.9 1.5 NM NM NM NM015046-A4 FA 1.9 1.4 NM NM NM 11.5 5.0 1.5 NM NM NM NM 015046-A5 FA 2.91.3 NM NM NM 11.6 4.8 1.8 NM NM NM NM 015050-A2 FA 5 0.9 NM NM NM 11.84.3 2.1 1.4 0.0 5.0 0.1 015050-A3 FA 10 1.6 NM NM NM 11.8 3.8 2.6 1.10.0 4.4 0.1 015050-A4 FA 25 2.8 61 105 173 12.5 3.4 3.6 2.9 0.1 5.3 0.4NM: Not measured

2) General Procedure for Solvent-Dispersed Crosslinking—DCE

Dry preformed amine polymer beads were added to a reaction vesselequipped with a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To the beads wasadded an inert (i.e. not a crosslinker) dispersing solvent. The beadswere dispersed in the solvent using mechanical agitation. Water wasadded directly to the dispersion, and stirring was continued for 30minutes. Neat dichloroethane was added to the flask, which was thenimmersed into an oil bath heated to a chosen temperature. The reactionwas heated using mechanical stirring under a nitrogen atmosphere for 16hours. Methanol was added to the reaction and, solvent was removed bydecanting. The beads were then filtered, and then purified by washing(MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH threetimes, and then H₂O until the pH of solution after washing was 7). Thepurified beads were then dried by lyophilization for 48 hours.

Specific Example Procedure for Solvent-Dispersed Crosslinking—DCECrosslinker

Unless otherwise noted, the example procedure below is the standardrecipe for all of the examples in this section. Specifically, thisdenotes a 1:6 bead to dispersing solvent (g/mL) ratio, 1:1 water to beadmass ratio, 70° C. jacket temperature, and 16 hours reaction time.

Dry beads (3.00 g) were added to a 250 mL round bottom flask equippedwith a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To the beads was addedheptane (18 mL, resulting in a 1:6 bead to DCE g/mL ratio). The beadswere dispersed in the heptane using mechanical agitation (˜100 rpmstirring). Water (3 mL, resulting in a 1:1 water to bead ratio) wasadded directly to the dispersion, and stirring was continued for 20minutes. Neat dichloroethane (3.57 g, 35.9 mmol) was added to the flask,which was then heated to 70° C. The reaction was heated using mechanicalstirring under a nitrogen atmosphere for 16 hours. Methanol (100 mL) wasadded to the reaction and, solvent was removed by decanting. The beadswere then filtered, and then purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂Oonce, 1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂Ountil the pH of solution after washing was 7). The purified beads werethen dried by lyophilization for 48 hours.

Effect of DCE Crosslinker Amount on Heptane Dispersed Reaction

The effect of DCE amount added to an inert solvent-dispersed second stepcrosslinking was explored (Table 8). In these experiments, 2 equivalentsof DCE (relative to nitrogen in preformed amine polymer) yielded thematerial with best combination of high selectivity and high chloridebinding as measured in SIB and SOB.

TABLE 8 Effect of DCE amount (expressed as molar equivalent) in heptanedispersed reaction on chloride selectivity Binding (mmol/g) DCE ParticleSize SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- mol Swell- (microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P UniqueID eq ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 019048-A1 FA0.33 1.2 NM NM NM 13.2 2.2 5.4 2.7 0.2 4.6 0.5 019048-A2 FA 0.66 1.2 NMNM NM 12.4 2.4 4.9 1.8 0.1 3.9 0.3 019048-A3 FA 1 1.1 NM NM NM 12.6 2.44.9 1.5 0.0 3.7 0.2 019048-A4 FA 1.33 1.2 NM NM NM 12.4 2.4 4.8 1.5 0.03.8 0.2 019048-A5 FA 1.66 1.2 NM NM NM 11.9 2.5 4.7 1.2 0.0 3.9 0.2019048-A6 FA 2 1.3 48 102 218 12.0 3.1 3.9 1.1 0.0 4.1 0.2 019048-A7 FA2.33 1.4 NM NM NM 12.5 2.6 4.6 1.4 0.0 4.3 0.2 019048-A8 FA 2.66 1.2 NMNM NM 12.3 2.4 4.7 1.0 0.0 3.9 0.2 019048-A9 FA 3 0.9 NM NM NM 12.4 2.54.6 0.9 0.0 3.8 0.2 NM: Not measured

Effect of Dispersing Solvents—DCE Crosslinker

The effect of using different inert dispersing solvents was explored(Table 9). It was found that dimethylformamide (DMF, water miscible)provided materials with high chloride binding in SOB, but relatively lowchloride selectivity and chloride binding in SIB. The addition of waterto DMF reaction mixtures did not affect SIB performance, butsignificantly decreased chloride selectivity and binding in SOB.

TABLE 9 Second step crosslinking using DCE as crosslinker in DMF andchlorobenzene (PhCl) as dispersing solvent. Binding (mmol/g) ParticleSize SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- Water: DCE Swell- (microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl PUnique ID Solvent Bead eq ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h)(24 h) 019052-A1 FA DMF 0 0.66 1.8 NM NM NM 12.5 2.3 4.8 4.4 0.4 4.1 0.6019052-A2 FA DMF 0 1.33 1.8 NM NM NM 12.0 2.3 4.4 3.9 0.1 4.3 0.3019052-A3 FA DMF 0 2 1.4 NM NM NM 11.9 2.5 4.3 3.6 0.1 4.2 0.2 019054-C1FA DMF 1 1.33 2.1 NM NM NM 12.0 2.3 4.5 3.2 0.8 3.1 1.0 019054-C2 FA DMF2 1.33 2.5 NM NM NM 11.8 2.3 4.5 2.1 1.1 2.1 1.2 019054-C3 FA DMF 4 1.333.3 NM NM NM 12.2 2.2 4.6 1.4 1.2 1.4 1.2 019050-A1 FA PhCl 1 0.66 1.551 114 245 12.8 2.2 5.3 1.9 0.1 4.8 0.4 019050-A2 FA PhCl 1 1.33 1.2 NMNM NM 12.7 2.4 4.8 1.2 0.0 4.0 0.2 019050-A3 FA PhCl 1 2 1.2 NM NM NM12.3 2.7 4.2 1.2 0.0 4.4 0.2 NM: Not measured

3) General Procedure for Solvent-Dispersed Crosslinking: DCE/DCP MixedCrosslinker System

Dry preformed amine polymer beads were added to a reactor vesselequipped with a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To the beads weresequentially added 1,3-dichloropropane (DCP) and 1,2-dichloroethane(DCE). The beads were dispersed in the DCE/DCP solution using mechanicalagitation. Water was added directly to the dispersion, and stirring wascontinued for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the flask was immersed intoan oil bath held at a chosen temperature. The reaction was held in theoil bath and agitated using mechanical stirring under a nitrogenatmosphere for a chosen amount of time. Methanol was added to thereaction and, solvent was removed by decanting. The beads were thenfiltered, and then purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCltwo times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂O until the pH ofsolution after washing was 7). The purified beads were then dried bylyophilization for 48 hours.

Specific Example Procedure for Solvent-Dispersed Crosslinking: DCE/DCPMixed Crosslinker System

Unless otherwise noted, the example procedure below is the standardrecipe for all of the examples in this section. Specifically, thisdenotes a 1:6 bead to crosslinker (g/mL) ratio, 1:1 water to bead massratio, 70° C. jacket (oil bath) temperature, and 16 hours reaction time.

Dry preformed amine polymer beads (3.00 g) were added to a 100 mL roundbottom flask equipped with a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To thebeads was added DCP (4.30 mL) and DCE (13.70 mL), resulting in a 1:6bead to DCE mass/volume ratio). The beads were dispersed in the DCEusing mechanical agitation (˜150 rpm stirring). Water (3.00 mL,resulting in a 1:1 water to bead mass ratio) was added directly to thedispersion, and stirring was continued for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes,the flask was immersed into an oil bath held at 70° C. The reaction washeld in the oil bath and agitated using mechanical stirring under anitrogen atmosphere for 16 hours. Methanol (60 mL) was added to thereaction and, solvent was removed by decanting. The beads were thenfiltered, and then purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCltwo times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂O until the pH ofsolution after washing was 7). The purified beads were then dried bylyophilization for 48.

DCE/DCP-Dispersed Crosslinking—Effect of DCE Amount

The effect of using different ratios in a mixed crosslinker systemwherein the crosslinker(s) is also the dispersing solvent was explored(Table 10). It was found that increasing amounts of DCP led to adecreased selectivity for chloride over phosphate in SIB.

TABLE 10 Effect of using different ratios of DCE and DCP in second stepcrosslinking. The non-DCE portion of the solution is DCP (i.e. for 84volume % DCE, the remaining 16 volume % is DCP). Binding (mmol/g) VolParticle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- % Swell- (microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl PUnique ID DCE ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h)019031-B1 FA 100 1.1 NM NM NM 11.3 5.2 1.3 1.5 0.0 3.7 0.1 019031-B2 FA92 1.0 NM NM NM 11.2 5.2 1.4 3.2 0.0 4.8 0.3 019031-B3 FA 84 0.9 NM NMNM 11.3 4.9 1.7 2.9 0.1 4.8 0.3 019031-B4 FA 76 1.0 NM NM NM 11.3 4.81.8 1.9 0.0 4.6 0.1 019031-B5 FA 68 1.0 NM NM NM 11.4 4.6 1.9 2.4 0.04.8 0.2 019031-B6 FA 0 1.1 NM NM NM 11.2 3.1 3.5 3.1 0.1 4.4 0.3 NM: Notmeasured

DCE/DCP-Dispersed Crosslinking—Effect of Water Amount

The effect of water content added to a mixed crosslinker second stepcrosslinking was studied (Table 11). Under these conditions, the idealwater content was found to be 0.5-1.0 g water/g preformed amine polymer.

TABLE 11 Effect of water content in a mixed crosslinker second stepcrosslinker reaction. The example procedure was used, but with 1 g ofpreformed amine polymer. Binding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- Water:Swell- (microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Unique ID Bead ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P(2h) (2h) 019022-A1 FA 0 1.4 NM NM NM 11.0 2.2 3.7 3.0 0.1 019022-A2 FA0.5 1.5 NM NM NM 12.0 4.0 2.7 4.3 0.1 019022-A3 FA 1 1.3 NM NM NM 11.83.9 2.7 5.2 0.3 019022-A4 FA 1.5 1.3 NM NM NM 11.5 3.3 3.2 4.4 0.1019022-A5 FA 2 1.0 NM NM NM 11.2 2.8 3.5 4.3 0.1 019022-A6 FA 2.5 1.3 NMNM NM 11.4 2.4 3.9 3.8 0.1 NM: Not measured

Effect of Heptane Amount on Mixed Crosslinker System DCE/DCP

The effect of diluting a mixed DCE/DCP crosslinker system with heptanewas explored (Table 12). As the amount of heptane increases (e.g. 80%heptane), the reaction mixture much more closely resembles acrosslinking reaction where the dispersing solvent is an inert solvent(i.e. not a crosslinker). Under these conditions, both selectivity forchloride and total chloride binding in SIB as more heptane was added.Alternatively, neither selectivity nor total chloride binding asmeasured by SOB were substantially affected up to 40 volume % heptane.

TABLE 12 The effect of diluting a mixed crosslinker system with heptanewas studied. The example procedure was used, but on a 1 g scale ofpreformed polymer amine, where the described percentage of thecrosslinker was replaced with heptane. Vol % Heptane in Binding (mmol/g)Dispersing Particle Size SOB- SOB- Solvent Swell- (microns) SIB- SIB- ClP Unique ID Mixture ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h) 019026-A1 FA 01.1 NM NM NM 11.6 3.8 2.7 4.2 0.1 019026-A2 FA 20 1.8 NM NM NM 11.6 3.43.2 4.4 0.1 019026-A3 FA 40 1.2 NM NM NM 12.1 3.1 3.7 4.5 0.2 019026-A4FA 60 1.5 NM NM NM 11.8 2.9 3.8 3.6 0.1 019026-A5 FA 80 1.7 NM NM NM12.4 2.1 5.0 3.7 0.2 019026-A6 FA 100 3.5 NM NM NM 13.8 1.7 6.2 0.8 1.4NM: Not measured

4) General Procedure for “Non-Dispersed” Reaction Crosslinking—DCPCrosslinker

Dry preformed amine polymer beads were added to a reaction vessel. Tothe beads was added water. The beads were then stirred gently with aspatula to insure even wetting of the beads by the water. The beads wereallowed to equilibrate for 20 minutes. Neat dichloropropane was added tothe vial, and the beads were again stirred with a spatula. The vial washeated to 70° C. for 16 hours. Methanol was added to the reaction. Thebeads were filtered, and then purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂Oonce, 1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂Ountil the pH of solution after washing was 7). The purified beads werethen dried by lyophilization for 48 hours.

Specific Example Procedure for “Non-Dispersed” Reaction Crosslinking—DCPCrosslinker

Unless otherwise noted, the example procedure below is the standardrecipe for all of the examples in this section. Specifically, thisdenotes a 0.68 mol eq DCP (molar ratio of DCP to total nitrogen inpreformed amine polymer) ratio, 0.25:1 water to bead mass ratio, 70° C.jacket (heating mantle) temperature, and 16 hours reaction time.

Dry preformed amine polymer beads (0.40 g) were added to a 20 mLscintillation vial. To the beads was added water (0.10 g, resulting in a0.25:1 water to bead mass ratio). The beads were then stirred gentlywith a spatula to insure even wetting of the beads by the water. Thebeads were allowed to equilibrate for 20 minutes. Neat1,3-dichloropropane (0.46 g, 4.1 mmol, 0.68 mol eq DCP per 1 molnitrogen in the preformed amine polymer) was added to the vial, and thebeads were again stirred with a spatula. The vial was heated to 70° C.for 16 hours. Methanol (10 mL) was added to the reaction. The beads werefiltered, and then purified by washing (MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCltwo times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H₂O until the pH ofsolution after washing was 7). The purified beads were then dried bylyophilization for 48 hours.

Effect of Water Amount in Non-Dispersed Crosslinking Reaction

The effect of water added to non-dispersed crosslinking reactions wasstudied (Table 13). In these experiments, it was found that the watercontent that yielded the highest selectivity and highest chloridebinding as measured in SIB was found to be less than 0.5:1 water to beadratio.

TABLE 13 Effect of water content in non-dispersed crosslinking reactionBinding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- Water: Swell-(microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID Bead ing D10 D50 D90 SGF Cl P (2h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 012020-A1 FA 0.25 0.9 NM NM NM 11.3 3.9 1.7 3.70.1 NM NM 012020-A2 FA 0.5 0.8 67 108 171 11.9 3.9 2.1 4.8 0.2 NM NM012020-A3 FA 0.75 1.2 NM NM NM 11.8 3.6 2.3 4.1 0.2 NM NM 012020-A4 FA 11.1 NM NM NM 11.3 2.9 3.2 4.1 0.1 NM NM 012020-A5 FA 1.25 1.3 NM NM NM11.9 2.6 3.7 3.8 0.1 NM NM 012020-A6 FA 1.5 1.4 NM NM NM 11.3 2.4 4.03.6 0.3 NM NM NM: Not measured

Effect of Molar Equivalents of DCP Crosslinker on “Non-Dispersed”Reaction Crosslinking

The effect of the amount of DCP added to non-dispersed crosslinkingreaction was explored (Table 14). Under these conditions, it was foundthat the molar equivalents of DCP that yielded the highest selectivityand highest total chloride binding as measured in SIB was found to beless than 0.5:1 water to bead weight ratio.

TABLE 14 Effect of molar equivalents of DCP on non-dispersed second stepcrosslinking Binding (mmol/g) Particle Size SOB- SOB- SOB- SOB- DCPSwell- (microns) SIB- SIB- Cl P Cl P Unique ID eq ing D10 D50 D90 SGF ClP (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 011053-A1 FA 0.28 1.5 NM NM NM 12.7 2.2 5.01.3 1.5 NM NM 011053-A2 FA 0.38 1.7 NM NM NM 12.1 2.9 3.8 5.3 0.4 NM NM011053-A3 FA 0.48 1.8 NM NM NM 12.6 2.6 4.4 5.1 0.3 NM NM 011053-A4 FA0.58 1.6 NM NM NM 11.9 3.2 4.1 5.3 0.4 NM NM 011053-A5 FA 0.68 1.5 NM NMNM 12.0 3.1 3.0 5.3 0.4 NM NM 011053-A6 FA 0.78 1.5 NM NM NM 11.9 2.92.5 5.2 0.4 NM NM 011053-A8 FA 0.98 1.5 NM NM NM 11.7 2.7 2.3 4.9 0.3 NMNM 011053-A9 FA 1.08 1.5 NM NM NM 11.6 3.0 2.1 4.7 0.3 NM NM 011053-A10FA 1.18 1.3 NM NM NM 11.8 3.0 2.9 4.7 0.3 NM NM NM: Not measured

5) General Procedure for Solvent-Dispersed Crosslinking—DCP Crosslinker

Dry preformed amine polymer beads were added to a reaction vesselequipped with a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To the beads wasadded an inert (i.e. not a crosslinker) dispersing solvent. The beadswere dispersed in the solvent using mechanical agitation. Water wasadded directly to the dispersion, and stirring was continued for 30minutes. Neat 1,3-dichloropropane (DCP) was added to the flask, whichwas then immersed into an oil bath heated to 70° C. The reaction washeated using mechanical stirring under a nitrogen atmosphere for 16hours. Methanol was added to the reaction and, solvent was removed bydecanting. The beads were then filtered, and then purified by washing(MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1N NaOH threetimes, and then H₂O until the pH of solution after washing was 7). Thepurified beads were then dried by lyophilization for 48 hours.

Specific Example Procedure for Solvent-Dispersed Crosslinking—DCPCrosslinker

Unless otherwise noted, the example procedure below is the standardrecipe for all of the examples in this section. Specifically, thisdenotes a 1:6 bead to dispersing solvent (g/mL) ratio, 1:1 water to beadmass ratio, 1 molar equivalent of DCP to nitrogen in preformed aminepolymer, 70° C. jacket (heating mantle) temperature, and 16 hoursreaction time.

Dry preformed amine polymer beads (3.00 g) were added to 100 mL roundbottom flask with a stir paddle and nitrogen gas inlet. To the beads wasadded an inert (i.e. not a crosslinker) dispersing solvent (18 mL,resulting in a 1:6 bead to solvent (g/mL) ratio). The beads weredispersed in the solvent using mechanical agitation. Water (3 mL,resulting in a 1:1 water to bead mass ratio) was added directly to thedispersion, and stirring was continued for 30 minutes. Neat1,3-dichloropropane (DCP) (5.22 g, 46.2 mmol) was added to the flask,which was then immersed into an oil bath heated to 70° C. The reactionwas heated using mechanical stirring under a nitrogen atmosphere for 16hours. Methanol (100 mL) was added to the reaction and, solvent wasremoved by decanting. The beads were then filtered, and then purified bywashing (MeOH two times, H₂O once, 1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1N NaOHthree times, and then H₂O until the pH of solution after washing was 7).The purified beads were then dried by lyophilization for 48 hours.

Effect of Molar Equivalents Crosslinker on Heptane DispersedReaction—DCP Crosslinker

The effect of the equivalents of DCP added to an inert solvent-dispersedsecond step crosslinking was explored (Table 15). In these experiments,1.0-1.2 molar equivalents of DCP to nitrogen in preformed amine polymeryielded the material with best combination of high selectivity and hightotal chloride binding as measured in SIB and SOB (Table 15). Effect ofwater content in DCP-heptane reaction on chloride selectivity. (100 mLvessel, 1 g beads, 1:3 bead to heptane (g/mL) ratio, 1:1 water to beadmass ratio, 70° C., 16 hours, no Dean Stark). The above exampleprocedure was used, but with a 1:3::bead to heptane (g/mL) ratio.

TABLE 15 DCP Particle Size Binding (mmol/g) mol (microns) SOB-Cl SOB-PSOB-Cl SOB-P Unique ID eq Swelling D10 D50 D90 SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h) (2h) (24 h) (24 h) 011088-A1 FA 0.2 1.4 NM NM NM 13.5 2.3 5.9 4.2 0.3 NMNM 011088-A2 FA 0.4 1.7 NM NM NM 13.2 2.4 5.8 4.7 0.2 NM NM 011088-A3 FA0.6 1.3 NM NM NM 13.0 2.5 5.3 4.7 0.2 NM NM 011088-A4 FA 0.8 1.7 NM NMNM 13.0 2.5 5.3 4.7 0.3 NM NM 011088-A5 FA 1 1.5 NM NM NM 12.7 2.6 5.35.4 0.2 NM NM 011088-A6 FA 1.2 1.6 NM NM NM 13.0 2.7 5.1 5.3 0.3 NM NM019006-A3 FA 1.4 1.3 NM NM NM 12.5 2.5 4.9 4.7 0.1 NM NM 019006-A4 FA1.6 1.4 45 71 129 12.5 2.4 5.1 4.2 0.2 NM NM 019006-A5 FA 1.8 1.9 NM NMNM 12.7 2.3 5.1 4.7 0.2 NM NM NM: Not measured

Effect of Water on Heptane Dispersed Reaction—DCP Crosslinker

The effect of the amount of water added to an inert solvent-dispersedsecond step crosslinking was explored (Table 16). Under theseconditions, a water content of less than 0.5:1 water to bead ratioyielded the material with best combination of high selectivity and hightotal chloride binding as measured in SIB and SOB.

TABLE 16 Effect of water content in DCP - heptane reaction on chlorideselectivity. The above example procedure was used, but with one gram ofpreformed amine polymer, and a 1:3 bead to heptane (g/mL) ratio.Particle Size Binding (mmol/g) Water: (microns) SOB-Cl SOB-P Unique IDBead Swelling D10 D50 D90 SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h) (2 h) 011073-A1 FA 0.251.2 NM NM NM 13.9 3.5 4.1 4.8 0.2 011073-A2 FA 0.5 1.2 79 112 165 12.43.7 3.7 5.3 0.2 011073-A3 FA 1 0.8 NM NM NM 12.0 3.6 3.3 3.9 0.2011073-A4 FA 2 1.8 NM NM NM 12.1 2.7 4.6 3.0 0.8 011073-A5 FA 3 2.2 NMNM NM 12.1 2.7 4.3 3.3 0.5 011073-A6 FA 4 2.7 NM NM NM 12.2 2.4 4.7 2.10.9 NM: Not measured

Effect of Dispersing Solvents—DCP Crosslinker

Examples of second step crosslinking of preformed amine polymer usingdifferent non-polar dispersing solvents are summarized in Table 17.Reactions with 1-octanol and 2-MeTHF were performed on a 0.4 g ofpreformed amine polymer in 20 mL scintillation vial with a 1:10 bead tosolvent (g/mL) ratio, and 0.68 molar equivalents of DCP relative to 1mol of nitrogen in preformed amine polymer. Cyclohexane used the exampleprocedure on a 1 g scale using a 1:3 bead to solvent (g/mL) ratio.Chlorobenzene reactions used the example procedure.

TABLE 17 Second step crosslinking using various nonpolar dispersingsolvents. Particle Size Binding (mmol/g) Water: DCP (microns) SIB- SIB-SOB-Cl SOB-P SOB-Cl SOB-P Unique ID Solvent Bead eq Swelling D10 D50 D90SGF Cl P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 011039-C1 1-octanol 1 0.68 2.7 NM NMNM 11.1 2.0 4.4 2.8 0.7 NM NM FA 011039-C2 1-octanol 0.50 0.68 2.7 NM NMNM 11.5 1.9 4.7 2.3 1.0 NM NM FA 011039-C3 1-octanol 0.25 0.68 3.4 NM NMNM 11.6 1.8 4.9 1.2 1.1 NM NM FA 011039-B1 2-MeTHF 1 0.68 1.3 NM NM NM12.1 1.9 5.1 4.6 0.3 NM NM FA 011039-B2 2-MeTHF 0.50 0.68 1.8 NM NM NM12.5 1.8 5.4 1.7 1.9 NM NM FA 011039-B3 2-MeTHF 0.25 0.68 3.7 NM NM NM12.7 1.8 5.5 1.0 1.3 NM NM FA 011072-A4 Cyclohexane 0.25 1.36 1.2 53 86146 12.8 2.6 5.0 4.4 0.2 NM NM FA 011043-A3 Cyclohexane 1.00 1.00 5.0 NMNM NM 13.9 2.0 6.2 1.3 2.1 NM NM FA 019050-C1 PhCl 1.00 0.66 1.5 NM NMNM 12.5 1.5 5.0 1.6 0.0 0.5 1.3 FA 019050-C2 PhCl 1.00 1.33 1.6 NM NM NM12.0 2.5 4.7 2.7 0.0 0.5 1.3 FA 019050-C3 PhCl 1.00 2.00 1.5 NM NM NM11.9 2.6 4.5 2.1 0.0 0.5 1.2 FA NM: Not measured

Water Miscible Dispersing Solvents—DCP Crosslinker

Examples of second step crosslinking of preformed amine polymer usingdifferent water-miscible dispersing solvents are summarized in the aboveexample procedure was used, but on a 0.5 g of preformed amine polymer ina scintillation vial, and no water was added to any of the reactions.

TABLE 18 Second step crosslinking with DCP using methanol (MeOH) andisopropanol (IPA) as dispersing solvents. Solvent: Particle Size Binding(mmol/g) Bead DCP (microns) SOB-Cl SOB-P SOB-Cl SOB-P Unique ID Solvent(vol) eq Swelling D10 D50 D90 SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h)002082-B1 MeOH 7.0 0.01 4.6 NM NM NM 14.1 1.8 6.0 0.6 1.2 NM NM FA002082-B2 MeOH 7.0 0.27 3.2 NM NM NM 13.7 1.9 5.3 1.0 1.1 NM NM FA002082-B3 MeOH 7.0 0.54 3.2 NM NM NM 13.0 2.1 4.9 1.2 0.9 NM NM FA002082-B4 MeOH 7.0 0.68 3.2 NM NM NM 10.8 2.2 4.7 1.4 0.8 NM NM FA012010-A1 MeOH 1.0 0.68 1.3 NM NM NM 11.1 2.2 3.8 3.5 0.2 NM NM FA012010-A2 MeOH 2.0 0.68 1.8 NM NM NM 11.5 2.2 4.1 2.6 0.5 NM NM FA012010-A3 MeOH 3.0 0.68 2.7 NM NM NM 11.8 2.1 4.3 2.0 0.6 NM NM FA012010-A4 MeOH 4.0 0.68 2.6 NM NM NM 11.9 2.1 4.3 1.8 0.6 NM NM FA012010-C3 IPA 3.0 0.68 1.9 NM NM NM 11.7 2.2 4.0 2.7 0.5 NM NM FA NM:Not measured

Alternative Swelling Agents

In most of the examples in Table 17 (DMF is the exception), water isadded to swell the bead and is immiscible with dispersing solvent beingused. The effect of using alternative, non-miscible, non-aqueousswelling agents was summarized in Table 19. Reactions using methanolwere performed on a 0.5 g of preformed amine polymer in 20 mLscintillation vial. Reactions using DMF followed the above exampleprocedure. All of the conditions tested yielded materials with lowerselectivity and total chloride binding than analogous reactions whereinwater was the swelling agent of choice.

TABLE 19 Effect of using non-aqueous swelling agents in second stepcrosslinking. Swelling Binding (mmol/g) Dispersal Swelling solvent/BeadXlinker SOB-Cl SOB-P SOB-Cl SOB-P Unique ID Solvent Solvent (v/m)Xlinker eq Swelling SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 012010-B1Heptane MeOH 2.1 DCP 0.01 1.7 11.9 2.2 4.3 2.8 0.5 NM NM FA 012010-B2Heptane MeOH 1.6 DCP 0.27 1.4 11.9 2.2 4.2 3.4 0.4 NM NM FA 012010-B3Heptane MeOH 1.4 DCP 0.54 1.2 11.7 2.2 4.2 3.8 0.2 NM NM FA 012010-B4Heptane MeOH 1.1 DCP 0.68 1.1 11.9 2.3 4.2 3.5 0.1 NM NM FA 015036-A1*Heptane DMF 0.1 DCE 0.68 3.0 15.6 2.6 6.0 1.7 0.3 3.7 0.5 FA 015036-A2*Heptane DMF 0.2 DCE 0.68 2.2 15.5 2.9 6.0 1.3 0.2 2.7 0.3 FA 015036-A3*Heptane DMF 0.3 DCE 0.68 2.2 15.5 3.0 5.7 1.4 0.2 3.1 0.3 FA NM: Notmeasured; *Source beads made from PAH/DCE as described in the example“SPECIFIC EXAMPLE FOR PREPARATION OF POLYALLYAMINE/DCE PREFORMED AMINEPOLYMER”

6) General Procedure for Ammonium Hydroxide Treatment afterPostcrosslinking

The general procedure can be performed with beads that have beenpurified by washing and dried by lyophilization, or with beads that havebeen partially purified by washing. In the latter case, treatment withammonium hydroxide is typically performed after the three methanolwashes, and normal purification by washing is resumed by washing with 1NHCl.

To post-crosslinked beads (dry or in the process of washing) was addedan aqueous NH₄OH solution that had been pre-heated to the desiredreaction temperature. The beads were dispersed in the solution usingmechanical stirring, and heated in the ammonium hydroxide solution for achosen amount of time. After completion of the treatment, the beads werefiltered, and then purified by washing (1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1NNaOH three times, and then H₂O until the pH of solution after washingwas 7). The purified beads were then dried by lyophilization for 48hours.

Specific Example Procedure for Ammonium Hydroxide Treatment afterPostcrosslinking

A secondary crosslinking was performed by reacting preformed aminepolymer (100 g dry beads) with DCE in the presence of water as aswelling agent. The beads were filtered after reaction, and washed threetimes with methanol. The wet beads were transferred to a 2000 mLround-bottomed flask, equipped with a nitrogen inlet and overheadstirrer. To the beads was added to 1000 mL (10:1::1N NH₄OH:dry beads(ml/g) of a 1N NH₄OH solution pre-heated to 70° C. The round-bottomedflask was immersed into an oil bath heated to 75° C., and the beads werestirred under a nitrogen atmosphere for four hours. The beads werefiltered, and then purified by washing (1N HCl two times, H₂O once, 1NNaOH three times, and then H₂O until the pH of solution after washingwas 7). The purified beads were then dried by lyophilization for 48hours.

Ammonia Treatment as Part of Washing Protocol

Ammonia treatment of postcrosslinked polymer was performed according tothe above example procedure, but with 10 g of beads where 0.5 g sampleswere taken, and the jacket temperature was 75° C. Ammonia treatment wasperformed as part of the washing, after the methanol washes, and before1N HCl wash. The treatment time was varied between 0 and 24 hours anddata are summarized in Table 20.

TABLE 20 Particle Size Binding (mmol/g) Time (microns) SOB-Cl SOB-PSOB-Cl SOB-P Unique ID (h) Swelling D10 D50 D90 SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h)(2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 030015-A1 0 1.4 NM NM NM 10.9 4.7 1.9 0.4 0.0 2.70.0 FA 030015-A2 1 1.3 NM NM NM 11.4 4.7 2.0 0.7 0.0 3.9 0.1 FA030015-A3 2 1.3 NM NM NM 11.0 4.6 1.9 0.7 0.0 3.7 0.0 FA 030015-A4 3 1.4NM NM NM 11.1 4.7 2.0 0.8 0.0 4.1 0.1 FA 030015-A5 4 1.2 NM NM NM 11.34.6 1.9 1.1 0.0 4.5 0.1 FA 030015-A6 6 1.2 NM NM NM 11.1 4.7 2.0 1.1 0.04.5 0.1 FA 030015-A7 24 1.2 NM NM NM 11.4 4.8 1.8 1.5 0.0 4.8 0.2 FA NM:Not measured

Ammonia Treatment of Postcrosslinked Purified and Dried Beads

Ammonia treatment of postcrosslinked polymer was performed according tothe above example procedure except for treatment performed after thepostcrosslinked polymer is purified and dried (Table 21).

TABLE 21 Particle Size Binding (mmol/g) (microns) SOB-Cl SOB-P SOB-ClSOB-P Unique ID Swelling D10 D50 D90 SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h)(24 h) 019092-A1 1.4 44 72 112 11.4 4.6 1.9 0.5 0.0 2.5 0.0 FA(untreated) 019092-A2 1.3 NM NM NM 11.2 4.5 2.1 1.0 0.0 4.2 0.1 FA(treated) NM: Not measured

7) Example of Effect of Heating of Postcrosslinked Polymer During theDrying Step on Chloride Selectivity in Sob

Preformed amine polymer beads were prepared as follows. Two aqueousstock solutions of monomer (50% w/w) were prepared by independentlydissolving allylamine hydrochloride (93.9 g) and DAPDA (97.7) in water.The 3 L Ace Glass jacketed reactor, equipped with an overhead stirrer(stirring at 180 rpm), addition funnel, temperature probe, and nitrogeninlet, was charged with Stepan Sulf-100 (25.7 g) dissolved in aheptane/chlorobenzene solution (26/74 v/v, 2571.4 g), followed by theaqueous stock solutions, and additional water (126.7 g). In a separatevessel, a 15 wt % solution of V-50 (19.4 g) in water was prepared andadded to the addition funnel. The two mixtures were independentlysparged with nitrogen while the reaction vessel was brought to 67° C.(˜1 h, T_(internal)>60° C.). Under inert atmosphere, the initiatorsolution was added to the reaction mixture, and subsequently heated at67° C. for 16 h. A second aliquot of initiator solution (equal to thefirst) and the reaction mixture, were sparged with nitrogen for 30minutes and combined before increasing the temperature to 115° C. for afinal dehydration step (Dean-Stark). The reaction was held at 115° C.until water stopped collecting in the Dean-Stark trap (6 h, >90% oftotal water removed, T_(internal)>99° C.). The reaction was allowed tocool to room temperature, and the stirring stopped to allow the beads tosettle. The organic phase was siphoned from the bead cake and methanolwas added (1 L) to re-suspend the beads (with stirring, 150 rpm). Theorganic solvent removal step was repeated twice. The beads were allowedto drain into a 2 L media bottle and the reactor was rinsed withmethanol (500 mL). The beads were purified by washing (MeOH two times,H2O once, 1N HCl two times, H2O once, 1N NaOH three times, and then H2Ountil the pH of solution after washing was 7), and were dried bylyophilization.

The preformed amine polymer beads were subjected to a second step ofcrosslinking according to the general procedure for solvent-dispersedcrosslinking: DCE, using the specific example procedure described abovescaled to 10 g of preformed amine polymer beads. At the end of thewashing steps, the resulting polymers were again either dried in alyophilizer, or in a conventional oven at 60° C. for 40 hours. The ovendried polymer had similar binding in SIB, but improved chloride bindingin SOB, compared to the lyophilized polymer (Table 22).

TABLE 22 Particle Size Binding (mmol/g) (microns) SOB-Cl SOB-P SOB-ClSOB-P Unique ID Description D10 D50 D90 Swelling SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h)(2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 026001-A1 Preformed 67 110 173 4.9 13.7 2.2 6.2 1.11.4 0.6 1.3 amine polymer 027076-A1 Post- 48 74 109 1.3 10.6 5.0 1.1 1.10.1 4.1 0.1 crosslinked polymer, dried by lyophilization 027076-A2 Post-51 77 112 0.8 10.3 4.8 1.1 2.4 0.1 4.3 0.3 crosslinked polymer, dried inoven

8) Binding Kinetics Examples

Selected polymers were evaluated in SGF, SIB and SOB assays (describedelsewhere), with samples taken at multiple time points (1, 2, 4, and 24hours of incubation) to evaluate anion binding kinetics under theseassay conditions. The results are shown in Tables 23, 24 and 25, below,which represent three sets of experiments. These polymers weresynthesized by subjecting a preformed amine polymer, prepared using thegeneral method for preparing preformed amine polymer described above, toa second step of crosslinking according to the “general procedure forsolvent-dispersed crosslinking: DCE” described above.

TABLE 23 SGF Binding Kinetics Water/ Cl saturation Polymer CompositeCross- bead Cl binding (mmol/g) at 1 h (% of ID description linkerDispersant ratio 1 h 2 h 4 h 24 h 24 h value) Sevelamer Polyallylamine/ECH n/a n/a 15.3 15.4 15.5 15.6 98 ECH Bix-30 C4B3BTA/ECH ECH n/a n/a13.7 13.7 13.8 14.0 98 019070-A1 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.05 11.0 11.3 11.211.5 95 DAPDA/DCE 019070-A2 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.15 7.8 9.1 10.2 11.3 69DAPDA/DCE 019070-A3 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.25 8.1 9.0 9.6 11.2 72 DAPDA/DCE019070-A4 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.35 8.0 8.9 9.6 11.1 72 DAPDA/DCE 019070-A5AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.45 9.5 10.2 10.7 11.6 82 DAPDA/DCE 019068-A1 AAH/30%DCE DCE 0.5 10.4 11.0 11.4 12.0 87 DAPDA/DCE 019063-A2 AAH/30% DCE DCE 112.1 12.1 12.1 12.3 98 DAPDA/DCE n/a: not applicable

TABLE 24 SIB Binding Kinetics Anion Composite Cross- Water/bead bindingPolymer ID description linker Dispersant ratio (mmol/g) 1 h 2 h 4 h 24 hSevelamer Polyallylamine/ ECH n/a n/a Cl 1.6 1.6 1.7 1.8 ECH PO4 6.8 6.96.9 7.1 Bix-30 C4B3BTA/ECH ECH n/a n/a Cl 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.9 PO4 5.2 5.25.3 5.4 019070-A1 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.05 Cl 2.4 2.6 2.4 2.5 DAPDA/DCE PO43.5 3.7 3.7 3.8 019070-A2 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.15 Cl 3.3 3.0 2.3 2.3DAPDA/DCE PO4 2.2 3.2 3.6 3.8 019070-A3 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.25 Cl 4.4 4.23.1 2.2 DAPDA/DCE PO4 1.3 2.2 2.9 4.1 019070-A4 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.35 Cl4.6 4.5 3.4 2.3 DAPDA/DCE PO4 1.0 1.9 2.5 4.0 019070-A5 AAH/30% DCE DCE0.45 Cl 3.9 3.2 2.5 2.3 DAPDA/DCE PO4 2.3 3.2 3.8 4.2 019068-A1* AAH/30%DCE DCE 0.5 Cl 3.5 2.8 2.5 2.6 DAPDA/DCE PO4 2.9 3.7 4.0 4.2 019063-A2AAH/30% DCE DCE 1 Cl 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.4 DAPDA/DCE PO4 4.4 4.5 4.5 4.7 n/a:not applicable

TABLE 25 SOB Binding Kinetics Water/ Anion Polymer Composite Cross- beadbinding ID description linker Dispersant ratio (mmol/g) 1 h 2 h 4 h 24 hSevelamer Polyallylamine/ ECH n/a n/a Cl 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.4 ECH PO4 1.4 1.21.2 1.1 Citrate 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.4 Taurocholate 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 Bix-30C4B3BTA/ECH ECH n/a n/a Cl 0.8 0.6 0.6 0.5 PO4 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.1 Citrate0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 Taurocholate 0.6 0.7 0.8 1.0 019070-A1 AAH/30% DCE DCE0.05 Cl 1.2 1.7 2.0 3.1 DAPDA/DCE PO4 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 Citrate 0.0 0.00.0 0.0 Taurocholate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 019070-A2 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.15 Cl0.6 0.7 0.9 1.7 DAPDA/DCE PO4 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 Citrate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0Taurocholate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 019070-A3 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.25 Cl 0.7 0.60.8 2.2 DAPDA/DCE PO4 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 Acetate 2.4 1.9 1.9 1.2 Citrate0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Taurocholate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 019070-A4 AAH/30% DCE DCE0.35 Cl 0.8 0.8 1.1 2.7 DAPDA/DCE PO4 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 Citrate 0.0 0.00.0 0.0 Taurocholate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 019070-A5 AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.45 Cl0.9 0.9 1.1 3.0 DAPDA/DCE PO4 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 Citrate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0Taurocholate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 019068-A1* AAH/30% DCE DCE 0.5 Cl 0.9 1.22.0 4.6 DAPDA/DCE PO4 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 Citrate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0Taurocholate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 019063-A2 AAH/30% DCE DCE 1 Cl 2.6 2.7 3.13.9 DAPDA/DCE PO4 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 Citrate 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Taurocholate0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 n/a: not applicable

Equilibrium Chloride Binding Measurement of Amine Polymers

The pH dependent equilibrium chloride binding of selected polymers wasmeasured using an autotitrator. Polymers at a starting concentration of4 mg/ml were incubated in a solution containing 100 mM sodium chloridefor 16 hours at room temperature. The samples were continuously stirredand were maintained at a set pH during the entire length of incubationvia slow addition of 0.1N HCl solution by the autotitrator. Afterincubation, 400 microliters of the sample was removed, filtered, dilutedif needed and then assayed for chloride content using ionchromatography. For each tested polymer, chloride binding is calculatedusing the following equation:

$\frac{\left\{ {\lbrack{Cl}\rbrack_{start} + \lbrack{Cl}\rbrack_{HCl}} \right\} - \lbrack{Cl}\rbrack_{final}}{{Concentration}{}\left( {{mg}/{ml}} \right)} \times {Dilution}{factor}$

Where, [Cl]_(start) is the starting chloride concentration in theincubation solution (mM), [Cl]_(HCl) is the chloride added viaautotitration using 0.1N HCl (mM), and concentration (mg/ml) is thefinal concentration of the polymer in solution (after accounting for thevolume of 0.1N HCl added).

Equilibrium chloride binding was measure using the above describedmethod at pH ranging from 1.5 to 12. A plot of chloride binding vs pHallows the construction of a titration curve and determination ofaverage pKa of a given polymer (FIG. 3 ). The example below showsequilibrium chloride binding (Table 26) and a plot of chloride bindingvs pH for example 019067-A2 in the free amine form, measured using abovedescribed procedure (see FIG. 2 ).

The average pKa of this example was determined to be 6.15. Data wasfitted using a fourth degree polynomial fit. Equilibrium chloridebinding at various pH values were calculated from the equation obtainedby the curve fitting and the pH value at which half of the maximumbinding was observed was considered as the average pKa of the polymers.

TABLE 26 Measured equilibrium chloride binding at different pH Sample:019067-A2 pH  1.6 3.0  5.0  6.0  7.0  8.0 9.0  10.3 12.0 Equilibrium11.6 9.53 7.35 6.49 4.83 3.4 1.25 0 0 chloride bound (mmol/g)

9) GICTA Data Example

Polymers described in the table below were synthesized by subjecting apreformed amine polymer, prepared using the general method for preparingpreformed amine polymer described above, to a second step ofcrosslinking according to the “general procedure for solvent-dispersedcrosslinking—DCE” or “general procedure for solvent-dispersedcrosslinking—DCE/DCP Mixed Crosslinker System” described above. For019067-A2, water removal was carried out by applying addition dean-starkstep after the reaction. The resulting polymers were evaluated using theGICTA assay. The results are described in Table 27.

TABLE 27 GICTA assay data Cl Water/ SGF NaOH retention Sample Cross-Equivalents Bead 1 hr - Cl SOB Cl- Ret - Cl elution - Cl (%) NaOH IDMonomer linker Crosslinker ratio Disperant Scale (mmol/g) (mmol/g)(mmol/g) (mmol/g) elution/SGF 014003- Sevelamer FA 15.5 3.9 2.5 0.0 8 A1010080- C4A3BTA ECH 2.3 NA NA NA 13.4 5.5 1.4 0.2 6 A1 019001- AAH/ DCE3 1 DCE 1 9.9 8.1 5.7 4.3 51 A1 30% DAPDA Bead 019033- AAH/ DCP/   1/3.90.5 DCE/DCP 3 9.4 7.4 6.1 4.5 56 A4 30% DCE DAPDA Bead 019014- AAH/ DCP/0.5/4.5 1 DCP/DCE 1 9.7 8.2 6.6 4.9 59 A2 30% DCE DAPDA Bead 019036-AAH/ DCP/   1/3.9 1 DCE/DCP 3 11.8 8.1 6.0 4.3 43 A1 30% DCE DAPDA Bead019063- AAH/ DCE 5.2 1 DCE 1 10.0 7.4 4.0 2.6 33 C1 30% DAPDA Bead019064- AAH/ DCE 5.2 1 DCE 1 10.0 7.8 3.6 2.5 30 C2 30% DAPDA Bead019067- AAH/ DCE 5.2 0.25 DCE 10 9.3 7.7 5.4 3.8 49 A2 30% DAPDA Bead019070- AAH/ DCE 5.2 0.35 DCE 15 8.4 7.2 4.5 3.2 46 A4 30% DAPDA BeadNA: Not Applicable

10) Examples of Preparation of Polymers from Polyallylamine SpecificExample for Preparation of Polyallyamine/DCE Preformed Amine Polymer

To a 500 mL round bottom flask, polyallylamine (14 g, 15 kDa), and water(28 mL) were added. The solution was purged with nitrogen and stirredoverhead at 220 rpm for 1 hour to completely dissolve the polymer. Next,30 wt % aqueous NaOH (7 mL) was added and stirred for 5 minutes. Apremade solution of DCE (175 mL), n-heptane (105 mL), and Span 80 (2.8g) was added to the aqueous solution. The solution was heated to 70° C.and stirred for 16 hours. The Dean-Stark step was initiated by addingcyclohexane (100 mL) and heating the reaction to 95° C. to remove thewater (>90%) from the beads (Table 28).

Specific Example for Polyallyamine/DCP Preformed Amine Polymer

To a 100 mL round bottom flask, DCP (31 mL), n-heptane (19 mL), and Span80 (0.5 g) were added. A separate aqueous stock solution ofpolyallylamine (2.3 g, 900 kDa), Aq NaOH (1 mL, 30 wt %), and water (4mL) was prepared. The aqueous stock solution was added to the organicsolution in the round bottom flask. The solution was purged withnitrogen for 15 minutes, heated to 70° C., and stirred for 16 hours.Methanol (30 mL) was added to the reaction mixture and the organicsolvent removed by decanting. The resulting beads were purified andisolated by washing the beads using, MeOH, HCl, aqueous sodiumhydroxide, and water. The beads were dried using lyophilizationtechniques (Table 28).

Specific Example for Polyallyamine/Dichloro-2-Propanol Preformed AminePolymer

Polyallylamine 15 kDa (3.0 g) and water (9.05 g) were dissolved in aconical flask. Sodium hydroxide (0.71 g) was added to the solution andthe mixture was stirred for 30 minutes. To a 100 mL round bottom flask,equipped side arm and overhead stirrer was added 0.38 g of sorbitansesquioleate and 37.9 g of toluene. The overhead stirrer was switched onto provide agitation to the reaction solution. Dichloropropanol (0.41 g)was added directly to the polyallylamine solution while stirring. Theresulting aqueous polyallylamine solution was added to the toluenesolution in the 100 mL flask. The reaction was heated to 50° C. for 16hours. After this time the reaction was heated to 80° C. for 1 hour andthen cooled to room temperature. The resulting beads were purified andisolated by washing the beads using, MeOH, HCl, aqueous sodiumhydroxide, and water. The beads were dried using lyophilizationtechniques (Table 28).

Specific Example for Polyallyamine/Epichlorohydrin Preformed AminePolymer

Polyallylamine 15 kDa (3.1 g) and water (9.35 g) were dissolved in aconical flask. Sodium hydroxide (0.73 g) was added to the solution andthe mixture was stirred for 30 minutes. To a 100 mL round bottom flask,equipped side arm and overhead stirrer was added 0.31 g of sorbitantrioleate and 39.25 g of toluene. The overhead stirrer was switched onto provide agitation to the reaction solution. The aqueouspolyallylamine solution was added to the toluene solution in the 100 mLflask. Epichlorohydrin (0.30 g) was added directly to the reactionmixture using a syringe. The reaction was heated to 50° C. for 16 hours.After this time the reaction was heated to 80° C. for 1 hour and thencooled to room temperature. The resulting beads were purified andisolated by washing the beads using, MeOH, HCl, aqueous sodiumhydroxide, and water. The beads were dried using lyophilizationtechniques.

Preformed amine polymer beads can be formed by the reaction of a soluble(un-crosslinked) polymer with a crosslinker. In this experiment, thesoluble polymer was linear polyallylamine and was crosslinked withbifunctional crosslinkers. Aqueous-soluble crosslinkers may selected forthese polymerizations, as the crosslinking reaction occurs in theaqueous phase. However, there are aqueous-immiscible crosslinkers (e.g.DCE and DCP) that can yield higher capacity polyamine beads due to theirsmaller molecular weight. In order to sufficiently crosslink linearpolyallylamine, aqueous-immiscible crosslinkers were used as acrosslinking cosolvent during bead formation. The polyamine beads formedwith aqueous-immiscible crosslinkers yielded higher total chloridebinding capacity (as described by SGF) than those made withaqueous-miscible crosslinkers (Table 28).

TABLE 28 Cross SOB-Cl SOB-P SOB-Cl SOB-P Unique ID linker Swelling SGFSIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h) 018013-A1 DCE 6.1 16.9 2.2 7.30.6 1.9 NM NM FA 015026-A1 DCE 5.9 16.6 2.0 7.2 0.4 1.5 0.3 1.4 FA018001-A2b DCP 4.6 15.9 1.9 7.1 0.8 1.9 NM NM FA 002054-A3 DC2OH 6.514.3 1.6 7.1 NM NM NM NM FA 011021-A6 DC2OH 3.0 14.3 1.5 6.1 1.2 2.0 NMNM FA 002050-A1 ECH 8.3 14.4 1.7 7.0 NM NM NM NM FA 002050-A2 ECH 8.814.2 1.6 7.1 NM NM NM NM FA SGF, SIB and SOB values expressed in mmol/gdry bead; NM: not measured

Specific Example of Postcrosslinking of PAH/DCE Preformed Amine Polymer

To a 100 mL round bottom flask, preformed polyamine beads (0.5 g) andDCE (3 mL) were added. The solution was purged with nitrogen and stirredoverhead for 5 minutes. Water was added (0.5 g) and the solution wasstirred for 20 minutes. The reaction mixture was then heated to 70° C.and stirred for 16 hours. Methanol (5 mL) was added to the reactionmixture, the stirring was stopped, and the solvent decanted off (Table29).

Specific Example of Postcrosslinking ofPolyallyamine/Dichloro-2-Propanol Preformed Amine Polymer

To a 20 mL vial, preformed polyamine beads (0.4 g) and methanol (2.8 g)were added. DCP was added (0.5 g for 002064-B4 FA, 0.7 g for 002064-B5FA). The reaction mixture was then heated to 70° C. and stirred for 16hours. The temperature was raised to 80° C. for 1 h. Methanol (5 mL) wasadded to the reaction mixture and the solvent decanted off.

Polyamine beads formed with linear polyallylamine and aqueous-immisciblecrosslinkers also have high chloride binding capacity (by SGF) after asecond step crosslinking. Furthermore, beads formed withaqueous-immiscible crosslinkers can achieve high SIB-Cl values (>6mmol/g) after a second step crosslinking (Table 29).

TABLE 29 Preformed amine Step 1 SOB-Cl SOB-P SOB-Cl SOB-P Unique IDpolymer xlinker Swelling SGF SIB-Cl SIB-P (2 h) (2 h) (24 h) (24 h)018022-A2 018013-A1 DCE 1.7 14.9 4.0 4.6 4.9 0.3 NM NM FA FA 015032-A1015026-A1 DCE 1.4 13.2 6.1 1.5 0.5 0.0 1.9 0.1 FA FA 015032-B2 015026-A1DCE 1.2 13.0 6.1 1.5 1.4 0.1 2.3 0.1 FA FA 002064-B4 002054-A3 DC2OH 3.112.1 1.7 5.6 1.3 1.4 NM NM FA FA 002064-B5 002054-A3 DC2OH 2.7 12.3 1.75.5 1.8 1.4 NM NM FA FA SGF, SIB and SOB values expressed in mmol/g dryweight; NM: not measured

Example of Postcrosslinking of a Preformed Amine Polymer withoutIsolation of the Preformed Amine Polymer

Polyallylamine hydrochloride is dissolved in water. Sodium hydroxide isadded to partially deprotonate the polyallylamine hydrochloride(preferably 50 mol %). The aqueous phase generated has a water content(by weight) 2.42 times the weight of the polyallyamine hydrochloride. Abaffled 3 necked flask, equipped with an overhead mechanical stirrer,nitrogen inlet, Dean Stark apparatus with condenser is set up to conductthe suspension reaction. A dichloroethane heptane mixture is prepared,such that there is 3 times by weight dichloroethane to heptane. Thisdichloroethane, heptane mixed solvent is added to the baffled 3 neckflask. The aqueous solution is added to the flask, such that the ratiois 6.4 dichloroethane to one water by volume. The reaction mixture isstirred and heated to 70° C. for 16 hours. At this point beads areformed. The Dean Stark step is initiated to remove all the water fromthe beads, while returning the dichloromethane and heptane back to thereaction mixture. Once no more water is removed the reaction mixture iscooled. Water and sodium hydroxide is added back to the reaction mixtureat a ratio of 0.25 water to polyallylamine and up to 1 equivalent ofsodium hydroxide per chloride on allylamine added (both calculated frompolyallylamine hydrochloride added at the beginning of the reaction).The reaction is heated for a further 16 hours at 70° C. The reaction iscooled to room temperature. The beads are purified using a filter fritwith the following wash solvents; methanol, water, aqueous solution ofHCl, water, aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide and 3 water washes oruntil the filtrate measures a pH of 7.

What is claimed is:
 1. A process for the preparation of a crosslinkedamine polymer, the process comprising (i) swelling a preformedcrosslinked amine polymer with a swelling agent, wherein the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer is a copolymer comprising the residues of (a)2-Propen-1-ylamine or a salt thereof and (b) 1,3-Bis(allylamino)propaneor a salt thereof and (ii) further crosslinking the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer with a crosslinking agent comprising1,2-dichloroethane to form the crosslinked amine polymer in a reactionmixture comprising the crosslinking agent and the swelling agent,wherein the preformed crosslinked amine polymer has an absorptioncapacity for the swelling agent, the amount of swelling agent in thereaction mixture is less than the absorption capacity of the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer for the swelling agent, the weight ratio ofthe swelling agent to the preformed crosslinked amine polymer in thereaction mixture is less than 1:1, and the swelling agent is water, andwherein the crosslinked amine polymer has a chloride ion bindingcapacity of at least 4 mmol/g, and a phosphate ion binding capacity ofless than 2 mmol/g, in a Simulated Small Intestine Buffer (“SIB”) assaywherein, in the SIB assay, the crosslinked amine polymer is combinedwith a SIB buffer consisting of 36 mM NaCl, 20 mM NaH₂PO₄ and 50 mM2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES) buffered to pH 5.5 at aconcentration of 2.5 mg/ml (25 mg dry mass of the crosslinked aminepolymer) in 10 mL of the buffer, and the combination is incubated at 37°C. for 1 hour with agitation on a rotisserie mixer.
 2. The process ofclaim 1 wherein the weight ratio of the swelling agent to the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer in the reaction mixture is less than 0.5:1. 3.The process of claim 1 wherein the crosslinked amine polymer has (i) aproton-binding capacity and a chloride binding capacity of at least 5mmol/g in a Simulated Gastric Fluid (“SGF”) assay wherein, in the SGFassay, the crosslinked amine polymer is combined with a SGF bufferconsisting of 35 mM NaCl and 63 mM HCl at pH 1.2 at a concentration of2.5 mg/ml (25 mg dry mass of the crosslinked amine polymer) in 10 mL ofthe SGF buffer, and the combination is incubated at 37° C. for 12-16hours with agitation on a rotisserie mixer.
 4. The process of claim 1wherein the crosslinks in the preformed crosslinked amine polymer areprimarily carbon-carbon crosslinks and nitrogen-nitrogen crosslinks areprimarily formed in the further crosslinking step.
 5. The process ofclaim 1 wherein the preformed crosslinked amine polymer has a chloridebinding capacity of at least 10 mmol/g in a Simulated Gastric Fluid(“SGF”) assay wherein, in the SGF assay, the preformed crosslinked aminepolymer is combined with a SGF buffer consisting of 35 mM NaCl and 63 mMHCl at pH 1.2 at a concentration of 2.5 mg/ml (25 mg dry mass of thecrosslinked amine polymer) in 10 mL of the SGF buffer, and thecombination is incubated at 37° C. for 12-16 hours with agitation on arotisserie mixer, and a Swelling Ratio in the range of 2 to 10, and thebinding capacity of the crosslinked amine polymer for phosphate in theSIB assay is less than a binding capacity of the preformed crosslinkedamine polymer for phosphate in the SIB assay.
 6. The process of claim 1wherein the weight ratio of the swelling agent to the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer in the reaction mixture is at least 0.15:1. 7.The process of claim 1 wherein the weight ratio of the swelling agent tothe preformed crosslinked amine polymer in the reaction mixture is lessthan 0.4:1 but at least 0.15:1, respectively.
 8. The process of claim 1wherein the weight ratio of the swelling agent to the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer in the reaction mixture is less than 0.3:1 butat least 0.15:1, respectively.
 9. The process of claim 1 wherein thereaction mixture comprises a solvent to disperse the preformedcrosslinked amine polymer in the reaction mixture, the ratio of thesolvent to the preformed crosslinked amine polymer in the reactionmixture is at least 3:1 (milliliters of solvent: grams of preformedcrosslinked amine polymer), the crosslinking agent and the solvent arethe same, and the swelling agent and the solvent are immiscible.
 10. Acrosslinked amine polymer obtainable by the process of claim 1.